U.S. patent application number 17/532018 was filed with the patent office on 2022-05-19 for staple cartridge comprising staples positioned within a compressible portion thereof.
The applicant listed for this patent is Cilag GmbH International. Invention is credited to Taylor W. Aronhalt, Chester O. Baxter, III, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Joseph E. Young.
Application Number | 20220151616 17/532018 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-05-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220151616 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Shelton, IV; Frederick E. ;
et al. |
May 19, 2022 |
STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES POSITIONED WITHIN A
COMPRESSIBLE PORTION THEREOF
Abstract
A fastener cartridge can comprise a support portion, a tissue
thickness compensator positioned relative to the support portion,
and a plurality of fasteners positioned within the support portion
and/or the tissue thickness compensator which can be utilized to
fasten tissue. In use, the fastener cartridge can be positioned in
a first jaw of a surgical fastening device, wherein a second jaw,
or anvil, can be positioned opposite the first jaw. To deploy the
fasteners, a staple-deploying member is advanced through the
fastener cartridge to move the fasteners toward the anvil. As the
fasteners are deployed, the fasteners can capture at least a
portion of the tissue thickness compensator therein along with at
least a portion of the tissue being fastened.
Inventors: |
Shelton, IV; Frederick E.;
(Hillsboro, OH) ; Baxter, III; Chester O.;
(Loveland, OH) ; Aronhalt; Taylor W.; (Loveland,
OH) ; Young; Joseph E.; (Loveland, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Cilag GmbH International |
Zug |
|
CH |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/532018 |
Filed: |
November 22, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16556987 |
Aug 30, 2019 |
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17532018 |
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14754221 |
Jun 29, 2015 |
10398436 |
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16556987 |
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13097856 |
Apr 29, 2011 |
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14754221 |
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12894369 |
Sep 30, 2010 |
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13097856 |
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International
Class: |
A61B 17/10 20060101
A61B017/10; A61B 17/072 20060101 A61B017/072; A61B 17/068 20060101
A61B017/068; A61B 17/3209 20060101 A61B017/3209 |
Claims
1. A staple cartridge, comprising: a cartridge body, comprising: a
rigid support portion, comprising: a support surface; a plurality
of staple cavities, wherein each said staple cavity comprises an
opening in said support surface; a compressible implantable portion
positioned relative to said support surface, wherein said
implantable portion comprises a tissue-contacting surface; and a
plurality of staples, wherein each said staple is movable between
an unfired position and a fired position, and wherein each said
staple comprises: a base; and at least one staple leg extending
from said base, wherein each said staple leg extends above said
support surface and is at least partially embedded in said
implantable portion when said staples are in their unfired
positions.
2. The staple cartridge of claim 1, further comprising a plurality
of staple drivers positioned within said cartridge body, wherein
said staple drivers are configured to move said staples between
their unfired positions and their fired positions.
3. The staple cartridge of claim 2, wherein said cartridge body
further comprises a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal
cavity extending between said proximal end and said distal end,
wherein said staple cartridge further comprises a sled configured
to traverse said longitudinal cavity, and wherein said sled is
configured to engage said staple drivers and eject said staples and
said implantable portion from said staple cartridge.
4. The staple cartridge of claim 3, wherein said staple drivers are
comprised of a bioabsorbable material, and wherein said sled is
configured to eject said staple drivers with said implantable
portion and said staples.
5. The staple cartridge of claim 2, wherein said support portion
comprises a bottom surface, wherein said staple cartridge further
comprises a pan attached to said support portion, and wherein said
pan is configured to at least partially enclose said bottom surface
and retain said staple drivers in said cartridge body.
6. The staple cartridge of claim 1, wherein said implantable
portion is comprised of compressible foam, wherein said cartridge
body further comprises a plurality of protrusions extending
therefrom, and wherein said protrusions are removably embedded
within said implantable portion.
7. The staple cartridge of claim 1, wherein said implantable
portion comprises a first height, wherein each said staple defines
a staple height when each said staple is in its unfired position,
and wherein said first height is taller than said staple
height.
8. The staple cartridge of claim 1, wherein said implantable
portion comprises a first height, wherein each said staple defines
a staple height when said staples are in their unfired position,
and wherein said staple height is taller than said first
height.
9. The staple cartridge of claim 1, wherein said cartridge body
further comprises a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal
cavity extending between said proximal end and said distal end,
wherein said staple cartridge further comprises a sled configured
to traverse said longitudinal cavity, and wherein said sled is
configured to eject said staples and said implantable portion from
said staple cartridge.
10. The staple cartridge of claim 9, wherein said sled comprises a
cutting member, wherein said cartridge body further comprises a
longitudinal slot extending through said support surface, and
wherein said cutting member is configured to move within said
slot.
11. The staple cartridge of claim 1, wherein said implantable
portion is removably attached to said support portion.
12. A staple cartridge assembly, comprising: a cartridge body,
comprising: a support portion, comprising a plurality of staple
cavities, wherein each said staple cavity comprises an opening; and
an implantable portion, wherein said implantable portion comprises
a tissue-contacting surface; and a plurality of staples, wherein
each said staple is movable between an unfired position and a fired
position, wherein said staples each comprise a staple leg that
extends out of a said staple cavity and is at least partially
positioned within said implantable portion when said staples are in
their unfired positions.
13. The staple cartridge assembly of claim 12, further comprising a
plurality of staple drivers positioned within said cartridge body,
wherein said staple drivers are configured to move said staples
between their unfired positions and their fired positions.
14. The staple cartridge assembly of claim 13, wherein said
cartridge body further comprises a proximal end, a distal end, and
a longitudinal cavity extending between said proximal end and said
distal end, wherein said staple cartridge further comprises a sled
configured to traverse said longitudinal cavity, and wherein said
sled is configured to engage said staple drivers and eject said
staples and said implantable portion from said staple
cartridge.
15. The staple cartridge assembly of claim 14, wherein said support
portion comprises a bottom surface, wherein said staple cartridge
assembly further comprises a pan attached to said support portion,
and wherein said pan is configured to at least partially enclose
said bottom surface and retain said staple drivers in said
cartridge body.
16. The staple cartridge assembly of claim 14, wherein said sled
comprises a cutting member, wherein said cartridge body further
comprises a longitudinal slot extending through said support
surface, and wherein said cutting member is configured to move
within said slot.
17. The staple cartridge assembly of claim 12, wherein said
implantable portion is comprised of compressible foam, wherein said
cartridge body further comprises a plurality of spikes extending
therefrom, and wherein said spikes are removably embedded within
said implantable portion.
18. The staple cartridge assembly of claim 12, wherein said
implantable portion comprises a first height, wherein each said
staple defines a staple height when said staples are in their
unfired position, and wherein said staple height is taller than
said first height.
19. The staple cartridge assembly of claim 12, wherein said
implantable portion is attached to said support portion.
20. A staple cartridge assembly for use with a surgical stapler
configured to staple a patient's tissue, said staple cartridge
assembly comprising: a cartridge body, comprising: a proximal end;
a distal end; a support portion; a plurality of staple cavities,
wherein each said staple cavity comprises an opening in said
support portion; a longitudinal cavity extending between said
proximal end and said distal end; and compressible means for
applying a compressive force to the tissue; a plurality of staples,
wherein each said staple is removably positioned within a said
staple cavity; and a sled movable within said longitudinal cavity,
wherein said sled is configured to eject said staples from said
staple cavities, and wherein said staples each comprise a staple
leg that extends out of a said staple cavity and is at least
partially positioned within said compressible means prior to said
staples being ejected from said staple cavities.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation application claiming
priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 120 to U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 16/556,987, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES
POSITIONED WITHIN A COMPRESSIBLE PORTION THEREOF, filed Aug. 30,
2019, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0187943,
which is a continuation application claiming priority under 35
U.S.C. .sctn. 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/754,221,
entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES POSITIONED WITHIN A
COMPRESSIBLE PORTION THEREOF, filed Jun. 29, 2015, which issued on
Sep. 3, 2019 as U.S. Pat. No. 10,398,436, which is a continuation
application claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 120 to U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/097,856, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE
COMPRISING STAPLES POSITIONED WITHIN A COMPRESSIBLE PORTION
THEREOF, filed Apr. 29, 2011, now U.S. Patent Application
Publication No. 2012/0080336, which is a continuation-in-part
application claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 120 to U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/894,369, entitled IMPLANTABLE
FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A SUPPORT RETAINER, filed Sep. 30,
2010, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0080344, the
entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference
herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates to surgical instruments and,
in various embodiments, to surgical cutting and stapling
instruments and staple cartridges therefor that are designed to cut
and staple tissue.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] The features and advantages of this invention, and the
manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the
invention itself will be better understood by reference to the
following description of embodiments of the invention taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0004] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a surgical instrument
embodiment;
[0005] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of one embodiment of an
implantable staple cartridge;
[0006] FIGS. 1B-1E illustrate portions of an end effector clamping
and stapling tissue with an implantable staple cartridge;
[0007] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional side view of another end
effector coupled to a portion of a surgical instrument with the end
effector supporting a surgical staple cartridge and with the anvil
thereof in an open position;
[0008] FIG. 3 is another partial cross-sectional side view of the
end effector of FIG. 2 in a closed position;
[0009] FIG. 4 is another partial cross-sectional side view of the
end effector of FIGS. 2 and 3 as the knife bar is starting to
advance through the end effector;
[0010] FIG. 5 is another partial cross-sectional side view of the
end effector of FIGS. 2-4 with the knife bar partially advanced
therethrough;
[0011] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative staple
cartridge embodiment installed in a surgical cutting and stapling
device;
[0012] FIG. 7 is a top view of the surgical staple cartridge and
elongated channel of the device depicted in FIG. 6;
[0013] FIG. 8 is a top view of another surgical staple cartridge
embodiment installed in an elongated channel of an end
effector;
[0014] FIG. 9 is a bottom view of an anvil;
[0015] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of a plurality of
staples forming a portion of a staple line;
[0016] FIG. 11 is another partial perspective view of the staple
line of FIG. 10 with the staples thereof after being formed by
being contacted by the anvil of the surgical cutting and stapling
device;
[0017] FIG. 12 is a partial perspective view of alternative staples
forming a portion of another staple line;
[0018] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view of alternative staples
forming a portion of another staple line;
[0019] FIG. 14 is a partial perspective view of alternative staples
forming a portion of another staple line embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector
supporting a staple cartridge;
[0021] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the elongated channel
portion of the end effector of FIG. 15 after the implantable staple
cartridge body portion and staples have been removed therefrom;
[0022] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector
supporting another staple cartridge;
[0023] FIGS. 18A-18D diagram the deformation of a surgical staple
positioned within a collapsible staple cartridge body in accordance
with at least one embodiment;
[0024] FIG. 19A is a diagram illustrating a staple positioned in a
crushable staple cartridge body;
[0025] FIG. 19B is a diagram illustrating the crushable staple
cartridge body of FIG. 19A being crushed by an anvil;
[0026] FIG. 19C is a diagram illustrating the crushable staple
cartridge body of FIG. 19A being further crushed by the anvil;
[0027] FIG. 19D is a diagram illustrating the staple of FIG. 19A in
a fully formed configuration and the crushable staple cartridge of
FIG. 19A in a fully crushed condition;
[0028] FIG. 20 is a diagram depicting a staple positioned against a
staple cartridge support surface and illustrating potential
relative movement therebetween;
[0029] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge
support surface comprising a slot, or trough, configured to
stabilize the base of the staple of FIG. 20;
[0030] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a staple comprising an
overmolded crown and a slot, or trough, configured to receive a
portion of the crown in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0031] FIG. 23 is a top view of a staple cartridge in accordance
with at least one embodiment comprising staples embedded in a
collapsible staple cartridge body;
[0032] FIG. 24 is an elevational view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 23;
[0033] FIG. 25 is an elevational view of a staple cartridge in
accordance with at least one embodiment comprising a protective
layer surrounding staples positioned within a collapsible staple
cartridge body;
[0034] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 25 taken along line 26-26 in FIG. 25;
[0035] FIG. 27 is an elevational view of a staple cartridge in
accordance with at least one embodiment comprising staples at least
partially extending outside of a collapsible staple cartridge body
and a protective layer surrounding the staple cartridge body;
[0036] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 27 taken along line 28-28 in FIG. 27;
[0037] FIG. 29 is a partial break-away view of a staple cartridge
in accordance with at least one embodiment comprising staples at
least partially embedded in a collapsible staple cartridge body,
the staples being at least partially positioned in a staple cavity
void in the staple cartridge body;
[0038] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 29 taken along line 30-30 in FIG. 29;
[0039] FIG. 31 is a partial break-away view of a staple cartridge
in accordance with at least one embodiment;
[0040] FIG. 32 is a partial break-away view of a staple cartridge
in accordance with at least one embodiment comprising staples at
least partially embedded within a collapsible staple cartridge body
and an alignment matrix connecting the staples and aligning the
staples with respect to each other;
[0041] FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 32 taken along line 33-33 in FIG. 32;
[0042] FIG. 34 is partial cut-away view of an inner layer of a
compressible staple cartridge body;
[0043] FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating the inner layer of FIG. 34
compressed between a transfer plate and a support plate;
[0044] FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating staples being inserted
into the compressed inner layer of FIG. 35;
[0045] FIG. 37 is a diagram of the support plate of FIG. 35 being
removed away from the inner layer;
[0046] FIG. 38 is a diagram of a subassembly comprising the inner
layer of FIG. 34 and the staples of FIG. 36 being inserted into an
outer layer;
[0047] FIG. 39 is a diagram illustrating the outer layer of FIG. 38
being sealed to form a sealed staple cartridge;
[0048] FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional view of the sealed staple
cartridge of FIG. 39;
[0049] FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge and
staple cartridge channel in accordance with at least one
embodiment;
[0050] FIG. 42 is a diagram illustrating a portion of the staple
cartridge of FIG. 41 in a deformed state;
[0051] FIG. 43 is an elevational view of an end effector of a
surgical stapler comprising an anvil in an open position and a
staple cartridge positioned within a staple cartridge channel;
[0052] FIG. 44 is an elevational view of the end effector of FIG.
43 illustrating the anvil in a closed position and the staple
cartridge compressed between the anvil and the staple cartridge
channel;
[0053] FIG. 45 is an elevational view of the end effector of FIG.
43 illustrating the staple cartridge of FIG. 43 positioned within
the staple cartridge channel in an alternative manner;
[0054] FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector of a
surgical stapler comprising a compressible staple cartridge
positioned within a staple cartridge channel and a piece of
buttress material attached to an anvil;
[0055] FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of
FIG. 46 illustrating the anvil in a closed position;
[0056] FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler comprising a
staple cartridge comprising a water impermeable layer;
[0057] FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler;
[0058] FIG. 50 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler comprising a
stepped anvil and a staple cartridge comprising a stepped cartridge
body;
[0059] FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler;
[0060] FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler comprising
inclined tissue-contacting surfaces;
[0061] FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler comprising
inclined tissue-contacting surfaces;
[0062] FIG. 54 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler comprising a
support insert configured to support a staple cartridge;
[0063] FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler comprising a
staple cartridge comprising a plurality of compressible layers;
[0064] FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler comprising a
staple cartridge comprising a stepped compressible cartridge
body;
[0065] FIG. 57 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler comprising a
staple cartridge comprising a stepped compressible cartridge
body;
[0066] FIG. 58 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler comprising a
staple cartridge comprising a curved tissue-contacting surface;
[0067] FIG. 59 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of an end effector of a surgical stapler comprising a
staple cartridge having an inclined tissue-contacting surface;
[0068] FIG. 60 is a cross-sectional view of a compressible staple
cartridge comprising staples and at least one medicament stored
therein;
[0069] FIG. 61 is a diagram illustrating the compressible staple
cartridge of FIG. 60 after it has been compressed and the staples
contained therein have been deformed;
[0070] FIG. 62 is a partial cut-away view of a staple cartridge in
accordance with at least one embodiment;
[0071] FIG. 63 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 62;
[0072] FIG. 64 is a perspective view of an implanted staple
cartridge in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0073] FIG. 65 is a cross-sectional view of the implanted staple
cartridge of FIG. 64;
[0074] FIG. 66 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a staple cartridge comprising deformable members extending from
an outer layer of the staple cartridge;
[0075] FIG. 67 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a staple cartridge comprising an outer layer of the staple
cartridge being assembled to an inner layer;
[0076] FIG. 68 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of staples,
a compressible layer, and a pledget layer;
[0077] FIG. 69 is a perspective view of the pledget layer of FIG.
68;
[0078] FIG. 70 is a perspective view of a pledget singulated from
the pledget layer of FIG. 68 and a staple aligned with a groove in
the pledget;
[0079] FIG. 71 is a perspective view of two connected pledgets from
the pledget layer of FIG. 68;
[0080] FIG. 72 is a perspective view of a pledget support frame of
the pledget layer of FIG. 68 being removed from the singulated
pledgets;
[0081] FIG. 73 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative
embodiment of a compressible staple cartridge comprising staples
therein and a system for driving the staples against an anvil;
[0082] FIG. 73A is a partial cut-away view of an alternative
embodiment of the staple cartridge of FIG. 73;
[0083] FIG. 74 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 73;
[0084] FIG. 75 is an elevational view of a sled configured to
traverse the staple cartridge of FIG. 73 and move the staples to
toward the anvil;
[0085] FIG. 76 is a diagram of a staple driver which can be lifted
toward the anvil by the sled of FIG. 75;
[0086] FIG. 77 is a break-away view of a staple cartridge in
accordance with at least one alternative embodiment comprising
staples positioned within staple drivers;
[0087] FIG. 78 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 77 positioned within a staple cartridge channel;
[0088] FIG. 79 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 77 illustrating an anvil moved into a closed position and
staples contained within the staple cartridge deformed by the
anvil;
[0089] FIG. 80 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 77 illustrating the staples moved upwardly toward the
anvil;
[0090] FIG. 81 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a staple cartridge comprising straps connecting the flexible
sides of the staple cartridge;
[0091] FIG. 82 is a perspective view of a sled and cutting member
assembly;
[0092] FIG. 83 is a diagram of the sled and cutting member assembly
of FIG. 82 being used to lift the staples of the staple cartridge
of FIG. 77;
[0093] FIG. 84 is a diagram illustrating a sled configured to
engage and lift staples toward an anvil and a lock-out system
configured to selectively permit the sled to move distally;
[0094] FIGS. 85A-85C illustrate the progression of a staple being
inserted into a staple crown;
[0095] FIG. 86 is a cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge
comprising a support pan or retainer;
[0096] FIG. 87 is a partial cross-sectional view of a compressible
staple cartridge in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0097] FIG. 88 is a diagram illustrating the staple cartridge of
FIG. 87 in an implanted condition;
[0098] FIG. 89 is a partial cut-away view of a compressible staple
cartridge in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0099] FIG. 90 is a partial cross-sectional view of the staple
cartridge of FIG. 89;
[0100] FIG. 91 is a diagram illustrating the staple cartridge of
FIG. 89 in an implanted condition;
[0101] FIG. 92 is a partial cross-sectional view of a crushable
staple cartridge in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0102] FIG. 93 is a partial cut-away view of a collapsible staple
cartridge in accordance with at least one embodiment comprising a
plurality of collapsible elements;
[0103] FIG. 94 is a perspective view of a collapsible element of
FIG. 93 in an uncollapsed state;
[0104] FIG. 95 is a perspective view of the collapsible element of
FIG. 94 in a collapsed state;
[0105] FIG. 96A is a partial cross-sectional view of an end
effector of a surgical stapling instrument comprising a jaw, a
staple cartridge channel positioned opposite the jaw, and a staple
cartridge positioned within the staple cartridge channel, wherein
the jaw comprises a retention matrix attached thereto;
[0106] FIG. 96B is a partial cross-sectional view of the end
effector of FIG. 96A illustrating the jaw being moved toward the
staple cartridge channel, the staple cartridge being compressed by
the anvil and the retention matrix, and a staple at least partially
extending through tissue positioned intermediate the retention
matrix and the staple cartridge;
[0107] FIG. 96C is a partial cross-sectional view of the end
effector of FIG. 96A illustrating the jaw in a final position and
the retention matrix engaged with the staple of FIG. 96B;
[0108] FIG. 96D is a partial cross-sectional view of the end
effector of FIG. 96A illustrating the jaw and the staple cartridge
channel being moved away from the implanted staple cartridge and
retention matrix;
[0109] FIG. 97 is a perspective view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment comprising a plurality of retention members configured
to engage a fastener leg extending therethrough;
[0110] FIG. 98 is a perspective view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment comprising six retention members;
[0111] FIG. 99 is a perspective view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment comprising eight retention members;
[0112] FIG. 100 is a perspective view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment comprising a plurality of retention members configured
to engage a fastener leg extending therethrough;
[0113] FIG. 101 is a perspective view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment comprising six retention members;
[0114] FIG. 102 is a perspective view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment comprising eight retention members;
[0115] FIG. 103 is a perspective view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment comprising a plurality of retention members that have
been stamped from a sheet of metal;
[0116] FIG. 104 is a perspective view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment comprising a plurality of apertures extending around the
perimeter of the retention aperture;
[0117] FIG. 105 is a top view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0118] FIG. 106 is a top view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0119] FIG. 107 is a top view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0120] FIG. 108 is a top view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0121] FIG. 109 is a top view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0122] FIG. 110 is a top view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix comprising a retention tab extending into the
retention aperture in accordance with at least one embodiment;
[0123] FIG. 111 is a top view of a retention aperture of a
retention matrix comprising a retention tab extending into the
retention aperture in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0124] FIG. 112 is a perspective view of a fastening system
comprising a plurality of staples, a retention matrix engaged with
the staples, and an alignment matrix configured to align the
staples;
[0125] FIG. 113 is a perspective view of the retention matrix of
FIG. 112;
[0126] FIG. 114 is a perspective view of the alignment matrix of
FIG. 112;
[0127] FIG. 115 is a partial top view of the retention matrix of
FIG. 112 engaged with the staples of FIG. 112;
[0128] FIG. 116 is a partial bottom view of the retention matrix of
FIG. 112 engaged with the staples of FIG. 112;
[0129] FIG. 117 is a partial elevational view of the fastening
system of FIG. 112;
[0130] FIG. 118 is a partial perspective view of the fastening
system of FIG. 112;
[0131] FIG. 119 is a partial cross-sectional view of the retention
matrix of FIG. 112 engaged with the staples of FIG. 112;
[0132] FIG. 120 is a partial cross-sectional view of the fastening
system of FIG. 112;
[0133] FIG. 121 is a perspective view of the fastening system of
FIG. 112 further comprising protective caps assembled to the legs
of the staples;
[0134] FIG. 122 is a bottom perspective view of the fastening
system arrangement of FIG. 121;
[0135] FIG. 123 is a partial perspective view of the fastening
system arrangement of FIG. 121;
[0136] FIG. 124 is a partial cross-sectional view of the fastening
system arrangement of FIG. 121;
[0137] FIG. 125 is an elevational view of an end effector in
accordance with at least one embodiment comprising a jaw in an open
position, a retention matrix and a plurality of protective caps
positioned in the jaw, and a staple cartridge positioned in a
staple cartridge channel;
[0138] FIG. 126 is an elevational view of the end effector of FIG.
125 in a closed position;
[0139] FIG. 127 is an elevational view of the end effector of FIG.
125 in a fired position;
[0140] FIG. 128 is an elevational view of the retention matrix and
protective caps of FIG. 125 assembled to the staple cartridge of
FIG. 125;
[0141] FIG. 129 is a detail view of the arrangement of FIG.
128;
[0142] FIG. 130 is an elevational view of the end effector of FIG.
125 illustrating the jaw in an open position with thinner tissue
positioned between the retention matrix and the staple
cartridge;
[0143] FIG. 131 is an elevational view of the end effector of FIG.
125 illustrating the jaw in a closed position against the thinner
tissue of FIG. 130;
[0144] FIG. 132 is an elevational view of the end effector of FIG.
125 illustrating the jaw in a fired position to capture the thinner
tissue of FIG. 130 between the retention matrix and the staple
cartridge;
[0145] FIG. 133 is an elevational view of the retention matrix and
the protective caps of FIG. 125 assembled to the staple cartridge
of FIG. 125 with the thin tissue of FIG. 130 positioned
therebetween;
[0146] FIG. 134 is a detail view of the arrangement of FIG.
133;
[0147] FIG. 135 is a cross-sectional view of a protective cap
positioned on the tip of a staple leg in accordance with at least
one alternative embodiment;
[0148] FIG. 136 is a perspective view of a plurality of protective
caps embedded within a sheet of material;
[0149] FIG. 137 is a perspective view of a jaw comprising a
plurality of recesses configured to receive a plurality of
protective caps therein;
[0150] FIG. 138 is a detail view of a portion of a jaw comprising a
sheet covering the protective caps positioned within the jaw of
FIG. 137;
[0151] FIG. 139 is a cross-sectional view of a protective cap
positioned on a tip of a staple leg in accordance with at least one
alternative embodiment wherein the protective cap comprises an
interior forming surface;
[0152] FIG. 140 is another cross-sectional view of the protective
cap of FIG. 139 illustrating the staple leg being deformed against
the forming surface;
[0153] FIG. 141 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a
retention matrix comprising a plurality of connected matrix
elements;
[0154] FIG. 142 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a
retention matrix comprising a plurality of connected matrix
elements;
[0155] FIG. 143 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a
retention matrix comprising a plurality of connected matrix
elements;
[0156] FIG. 144 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of an
array of retention matrices comprising a plurality of connected
matrix elements;
[0157] FIG. 145 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a
retention matrix comprising a plurality of connected matrix
elements;
[0158] FIG. 146 is a partial exploded view of a jaw comprising a
retention matrix including a compressible cover;
[0159] FIG. 147 is a detail view of the retention matrix of FIG.
146;
[0160] FIG. 148 is a partial cross-sectional view of a fastening
system comprising a retention matrix including a compressible layer
and a plurality of cells encapsulating one or more medicaments;
[0161] FIG. 149 is a diagram illustrating staple legs which have
pierced the cells of FIG. 148 as they are being engaged with the
retention matrix;
[0162] FIG. 150 is a partial cross-sectional view of a fastening
system comprising a retention matrix including a compressible
layer;
[0163] FIG. 151 is an elevational view of a fastener cartridge
insertion assembly comprising a holder, a first fastener cartridge,
and a second fastener cartridge;
[0164] FIG. 152 is an elevational view of an end effector of a
surgical stapler comprising a first jaw and a second jaw, the
second jaw being illustrated in an open configuration;
[0165] FIG. 153 is an elevational view of the end effector of FIG.
152 illustrating the second jaw in a closed configuration and the
fastener cartridge insertion assembly of FIG. 151 being used to
load the first jaw with the first cartridge and the second jaw with
the second cartridge;
[0166] FIG. 154 is an elevational view of the loaded end effector
of FIG. 153 illustrating the cartridge insertion assembly removed
from the end effector, the second jaw in an open configuration once
again, and tissue positioned intermediate the first jaw and the
second jaw;
[0167] FIG. 155 is an elevational view of the loaded end effector
of FIG. 154 in a fired configuration;
[0168] FIG. 156 is an elevational view of the first cartridge and
the second cartridge in an implanted condition;
[0169] FIG. 157 is an elevational view of the end effector of FIG.
152 illustrating a portion of the first cartridge still engaged
with the first jaw in accordance with at least one embodiment;
[0170] FIG. 158 is an elevational view of an alternative embodiment
of a fastener cartridge insertion assembly comprising a holder, a
first fastener cartridge, and a second fastener cartridge;
[0171] FIG. 159 is an elevational view of the fastener cartridge
insertion assembly of FIG. 158 being used to load a first jaw of an
end effector with the first cartridge and a second jaw with the
second cartridge;
[0172] FIG. 160 is a cross-sectional view of the loaded end
effector of FIG. 159;
[0173] FIG. 161 is a perspective view of a surgical stapler
comprising a bottom jaw and a top jaw in accordance with at least
one embodiment illustrated with portions of the surgical stapler
removed;
[0174] FIG. 162 is a perspective view of the surgical stapler of
FIG. 161 with the top jaw removed;
[0175] FIG. 163 is a perspective view of a slidable anvil system of
the top jaw of the surgical stapler of FIG. 161 comprising a first
slidable anvil and a second slidable anvil;
[0176] FIG. 164 is an end view of the slidable anvil system of FIG.
163;
[0177] FIG. 165 is a top view of the slidable anvil system of FIG.
163;
[0178] FIG. 166 is a diagram illustrating the slidable anvil system
of FIG. 163 in an unfired condition;
[0179] FIG. 167 is a diagram illustrating the first slidable anvil
of the slidable anvil system of FIG. 163 in an unfired position and
staples positioned within the bottom jaw in an undeployed
position;
[0180] FIG. 168 is a diagram illustrating the staples in the bottom
jaw in a deployed configuration and the first slidable anvil of
FIG. 167 being pulled proximally to deform a first group of staple
legs of the staples;
[0181] FIG. 169 is a diagram illustrating the first group of
staples of FIG. 168 deformed to a fully deformed state;
[0182] FIG. 170 is a diagram illustrating the second slidable anvil
of the slidable anvil system of FIG. 163 being pushed distally to
deform a second group of staple legs;
[0183] FIG. 171 is a partial perspective view of an anvil
comprising a plurality of forming pockets in at least one
embodiment;
[0184] FIG. 172 is a cross-sectional end view of the anvil of FIG.
171;
[0185] FIG. 173 is a diagram illustrating a first step in
manufacturing the forming pockets of FIG. 171;
[0186] FIG. 174 is a diagram illustrating a second step in
manufacturing the forming pockets of FIG. 171;
[0187] FIG. 175 is a top view of the forming pocket arrangement of
the anvil of FIG. 171;
[0188] FIG. 176 is a diagram illustrating a first step of a
manufacturing process for producing an anvil;
[0189] FIG. 177 is a diagram illustrating a second step in the
manufacturing process of FIG. 176;
[0190] FIG. 178 is a diagram illustrating a third step in the
manufacturing process of FIG. 176;
[0191] FIG. 179 is a left front perspective view of a surgical
stapling and severing instrument with a handle portion including a
link triggered automatic retraction and a ratcheting manual
retraction mechanism;
[0192] FIG. 180 is a right aft perspective view of the surgical
stapling and severing instrument of FIG. 179 with a portion of an
elongate shaft cut away and a right half shell of a handle housing
removed to expose an automatic end-of-firing travel retraction
mechanism and a manual firing retraction mechanism;
[0193] FIG. 181 is a right aft perspective disassembled view of the
handle portion and an elongate shaft of the surgical stapling and
severing instrument of FIG. 179;
[0194] FIG. 182 is a right aft perspective view of the surgical
stapling and severing instrument of FIG. 31 with a right half shell
and outer portions of the implement portion removed to expose the
closure and firing mechanisms in an initial state;
[0195] FIG. 183 is a right side view in elevation of the partially
disassembled surgical stapling and severing instrument of FIG.
182;
[0196] FIG. 184 is a right aft perspective view of the partially
disassembled surgical stapling and severing instrument of FIG. 182
with a closure mechanism closed and clamped and the side pawl
firing mechanism completing a first stroke and with a manual
retraction mechanism removed to expose a distal link of the linked
rack that triggers automatic retraction of the firing
mechanism;
[0197] FIG. 185 is a right aft perspective view of the partially
disassembled surgical stapling and severing instrument of FIG. 183
with the side pawl firing mechanism disengaged and the distal link
approaching automatic retraction;
[0198] FIG. 186 is left side view in elevation of the partially
disassembled surgical stapling and severing instrument of FIG. 183
in an initial state of end effector open and anti-backup mechanism
engaged;
[0199] FIG. 187 is a left side detail view of the right half shell
and an anti-backup release lever of the handle portion of FIG.
186;
[0200] FIG. 188 is a left side detail view in elevation of the
disassembled surgical stapling and severing instrument of FIG. 179
with the closure trigger clamped, the firing trigger performing a
final stroke and the distal link positioned to trip automatic
retraction;
[0201] FIG. 189 is a left side detail in elevation of the
disassembled surgical stapling and severing instrument of FIG. 188
immediately after the distal link has actuated and locked forward
the anti-backup release lever, allowing the linked rack to
retract;
[0202] FIG. 190 is a right disassembled perspective view of the
idler and aft gears and manual retraction lever and ratcheting pawl
of a manual retraction mechanism of the surgical stapling and
severing instrument of FIG. 179;
[0203] FIG. 191 is a right perspective view of the manual
retraction mechanism of FIG. 190 with the manual retraction lever
partially cut away to expose a smaller diameter ratchet gear on the
aft gear engaging the ratcheting pawl;
[0204] FIG. 192 is a partially disassembled left side view in
elevation of a surgical stapling and severing instrument of FIG.
179 with the anti-backup mechanism engaged to a fully fired linked
rack that is disconnected from a combination tension/compression
spring prior to actuation of the manual retraction lever of FIG.
190;
[0205] FIG. 193 is a partially disassembled left side view in
elevation of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of FIG.
192 with hidden portions of the anti-backup release lever, aft
gear, and manual firing release lever shown in phantom;
[0206] FIG. 194 is a partially disassembled left side view in
elevation of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of FIG.
193 after actuation of the manual firing release lever has manually
retracted the link rack;
[0207] FIG. 195 is a partially disassembled left side view in
elevation of the surgical stapling and severing instrument of FIG.
194 with the linked rack omitted depicting the manual firing
release lever disengaging the anti-backup mechanism;
[0208] FIG. 196 is a left side detail view of an alternative
anti-backup release lever and handle housing for the surgical
stapling and severing instrument of FIG. 179;
[0209] FIG. 197 is a left perspective disassembled view of the
alternative anti-backup release lever, aft gear axle, and automatic
retraction cam wheel of FIG. 196;
[0210] FIG. 198 is a right side view in elevation of the
alternative anti-backup release mechanism of FIG. 196 with the
linked rack in a retracted position and the anti-backup release
lever proximally positioned with the anti-backup plate engaged to
the firing rod;
[0211] FIG. 198A is a right detail side view in elevation of the
aft gear, automatic retraction cam wheel and distal-most link of
FIG. 198;
[0212] FIG. 199 is a right side view in elevation of the
anti-backup release mechanism of FIG. 198 after a first firing
stroke;
[0213] FIG. 199A is a right detail side view in elevation of the
aft gear, automatic retraction cam wheel and a second link of FIG.
199;
[0214] FIG. 200 is a right side view in elevation of the
anti-backup release mechanism of FIG. 199 after a second firing
stroke;
[0215] FIG. 200A is a right detail side view in elevation of the
aft gear, automatic retraction cam wheel and third link of FIG.
200;
[0216] FIG. 201 is a right detail side view in elevation of the
anti-backup release mechanism of FIG. 200 after a third firing and
final stroke;
[0217] FIG. 201A is a right detail side view in elevation of the
aft gear, automatic retraction cam wheel and proximal-most fourth
link of FIG. 201;
[0218] FIG. 202 is a right side view in elevation of the automatic
release mechanism of FIG. 201 after a further firing stroke causes
the automatic retraction cam wheel to distally slide and lock the
anti-backup release lever, disengaging the anti-backup
mechanism;
[0219] FIG. 203 is a left, front perspective view of an open staple
applying assembly with a right half portion of a replaceable staple
cartridge included in a staple channel;
[0220] FIG. 204 is an exploded perspective view of the staple
applying assembly of FIG. 203 with a complete replaceable staple
cartridge and an nonarticulating shaft configuration;
[0221] FIG. 205 is a perspective view of a two-piece knife and
firing bar ("E-beam") of the staple applying assembly of FIG.
203;
[0222] FIG. 206 is a perspective view of a wedge sled of a staple
cartridge of a staple applying assembly;
[0223] FIG. 207 is a left side view in elevation taken in
longitudinal cross section along a centerline line 207-207 of the
staple applying assembly of FIG. 203;
[0224] FIG. 208 is a perspective view of the open staple applying
assembly of FIG. 203 without the replaceable staple cartridge, a
portion of the staple channel proximate to a middle pin of
two-piece knife and firing bar, and without a distal portion of a
staple channel;
[0225] FIG. 209 is a front view in elevation taken in cross section
along line 209-209 of the staple applying assembly of FIG. 203
depicting internal staple drivers of the staple cartridge and
portions of the two-piece knife and firing bar;
[0226] FIG. 210 is a left side view in elevation taken generally
along the longitudinal axis of line 207-207 of a closed staple
applying assembly of FIG. 203 to include center contact points
between the two-piece knife and wedge sled but also laterally
offset to show staples and staple drivers within the staple
cartridge;
[0227] FIG. 211 is a left side detail view in elevation of the
staple applying assembly of FIG. 210 with the two-piece knife
retracted slightly more as typical for staple cartridge
replacement;
[0228] FIG. 212 is a left side detail view in elevation of the
staple applying assembly of FIG. 211 with the two-piece knife
beginning to fire, corresponding to the configuration depicted in
FIG. 210;
[0229] FIG. 213 is a left side cross-sectional view in elevation of
the closed staple applying assembly of FIG. 210 after the two-piece
knife and firing bar has distally fired;
[0230] FIG. 214 is a left side cross-sectional view in elevation of
the closed staple applying assembly of FIG. 213 after firing of the
staple cartridge and retraction of the two-piece knife;
[0231] FIG. 215 is a left side cross-sectional detail view in
elevation of the staple applying assembly of FIG. 214 with the
two-piece knife allowed to drop into a lockout position;
[0232] FIG. 216 is a perspective view of a staple cartridge
comprising a rigid support portion and a compressible tissue
thickness compensator for use with a surgical stapling instrument
in accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0233] FIG. 217 is a partially exploded view of the staple
cartridge of FIG. 216;
[0234] FIG. 218 is a fully exploded view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 216;
[0235] FIG. 219 is another exploded view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 216 without a warp covering the tissue thickness
compensator;
[0236] FIG. 220 is a perspective view of a cartridge body, or
support portion, of the staple cartridge of FIG. 216;
[0237] FIG. 221 is a top perspective view of a sled movable within
the staple cartridge of FIG. 216 to deploy staples from the staple
cartridge;
[0238] FIG. 222 is a bottom perspective view of the sled of FIG.
221;
[0239] FIG. 223 is an elevational view of the sled of FIG. 221;
[0240] FIG. 224 is a top perspective view of a driver configured to
support one or more staples and to be lifted upwardly by the sled
of FIG. 221 to eject the staples from the staple cartridge;
[0241] FIG. 225 is a bottom perspective view of the driver of FIG.
224;
[0242] FIG. 226 is a wrap configured to at least partially surround
a compressible tissue thickness compensator of a staple
cartridge;
[0243] FIG. 227 is a partial cut away view of a staple cartridge
comprising a rigid support portion and a compressible tissue
thickness compensator illustrated with staples being moved from an
unfired position to a fired position during a first sequence;
[0244] FIG. 228 is an elevational view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 227;
[0245] FIG. 229 is a detail elevational view of the staple
cartridge of FIG. 227;
[0246] FIG. 230 is a cross-sectional end view of the staple
cartridge of FIG. 227;
[0247] FIG. 231 is a bottom view of the staple cartridge of FIG.
227;
[0248] FIG. 232 is a detail bottom view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 227;
[0249] FIG. 233 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an anvil
in a closed position and a staple cartridge comprising a rigid
support portion and a compressible tissue thickness compensator
illustrated with staples being moved from an unfired position to a
fired position during a first sequence;
[0250] FIG. 234 is another cross-sectional view of the anvil and
the staple cartridge of FIG. 233 illustrating the anvil in an open
position after the firing sequence has been completed;
[0251] FIG. 235 is a partial detail view of the staple cartridge of
FIG. 233 illustrating the staples in an unfired position;
[0252] FIG. 236 is a cross-sectional elevational view of a staple
cartridge comprising a rigid support portion and a compressible
tissue thickness compensator illustrating the staples in an unfired
position;
[0253] FIG. 237 is a detail view of the staple cartridge of FIG.
236;
[0254] FIG. 238 is an elevational view of an anvil in an open
position and a staple cartridge comprising a rigid support portion
and a compressible tissue thickness compensator illustrating the
staples in an unfired position;
[0255] FIG. 239 is an elevational view of an anvil in a closed
position and a staple cartridge comprising a rigid support portion
and a compressible tissue thickness compensator illustrating the
staples in an unfired position and tissue captured between the
anvil and the tissue thickness compensator;
[0256] FIG. 240 is a detail view of the anvil and staple cartridge
of FIG. 239;
[0257] FIG. 241 is an elevational view of an anvil in a closed
position and a staple cartridge comprising a rigid support portion
and a compressible tissue thickness compensator illustrating the
staples in an unfired position illustrating thicker tissue
positioned between the anvil and the staple cartridge;
[0258] FIG. 242 is a detail view of the anvil and staple cartridge
of FIG. 241;
[0259] FIG. 243 is an elevational view of the anvil and staple
cartridge of FIG. 241 illustrating tissue having different
thicknesses positioned between the anvil and the staple
cartridge;
[0260] FIG. 244 is a detail view of the anvil and staple cartridge
of FIG. 241 as illustrated in FIG. 243;
[0261] FIG. 245 is a diagram illustrating a tissue thickness
compensator which is compensating for different tissue thickness
captured within different staples;
[0262] FIG. 246 is a diagram illustrating a tissue thickness
compensator applying a compressive pressure to one or more vessels
that have been transected by a staple line;
[0263] FIG. 247 is a diagram illustrating a circumstance wherein
one or more staples have been improperly formed;
[0264] FIG. 248 is a diagram illustrating a tissue thickness
compensator which could compensate for improperly formed
staples;
[0265] FIG. 249 is a diagram illustrating a tissue thickness
compensator positioned in a region of tissue in which multiple
staples lines have intersected;
[0266] FIG. 250 is a diagram illustrating tissue captured within a
staple;
[0267] FIG. 251 is a diagram illustrating tissue and a tissue
thickness compensator captured within a staple;
[0268] FIG. 252 is a diagram illustrating tissue captured within a
staple;
[0269] FIG. 253 is a diagram illustrating thick tissue and a tissue
thickness compensator captured within a staple;
[0270] FIG. 254 is a diagram illustrating thin tissue and a tissue
thickness compensator captured within a staple;
[0271] FIG. 255 is a diagram illustrating tissue having an
intermediate thickness and a tissue thickness compensator captured
within a staple;
[0272] FIG. 256 is a diagram illustrating tissue having another
intermediate thickness and a tissue thickness compensator captured
within a staple;
[0273] FIG. 257 is a diagram illustrating thick tissue and a tissue
thickness compensator captured within a staple;
[0274] FIG. 258 is a partial cross-sectional view of an end
effector of a surgical stapling instrument illustrating a firing
bar and staple-firing sled in a retracted, unfired position;
[0275] FIG. 259 is another partial cross-sectional view of the end
effector of FIG. 258 illustrating the firing bar and the
staple-firing sled in a partially advanced position;
[0276] FIG. 260 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of
FIG. 258 illustrating the firing bar in a fully advanced, or fired,
position;
[0277] FIG. 261 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of
FIG. 258 illustrating the firing bar in a retracted position after
being fired and the staple-firing sled left in its fully fired
position;
[0278] FIG. 262 is a detail view of the firing bar in the retracted
position of FIG. 261;
[0279] FIG. 263 is a partial cross-sectional view of an end
effector of a surgical stapling instrument including a staple
cartridge comprising a tissue thickness compensator and staples at
least partially positioned therein;
[0280] FIG. 264 is another partial cross-sectional view of the end
effector of FIG. 263 illustrating the staples at least partially
moved and/or rotated relative to an anvil positioned opposite the
staple cartridge;
[0281] FIG. 265 is a partial cross-sectional view of an end
effector of a surgical stapling instrument in accordance with at
least one embodiment;
[0282] FIG. 266 is a partial cross-sectional view of an end
effector in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0283] FIG. 267 is a partial cross-sectional view of an end
effector in accordance with another alternative embodiment;
[0284] FIG. 268 is a perspective view of an end effector of a
surgical stapling instrument in accordance with at least one
embodiment;
[0285] FIG. 269 is a partial cross-sectional view of the end
effector of FIG. 268 illustrated in a flexed condition;
[0286] FIG. 270 is a partial cross-sectional view of the end
effector of FIG. 269 in a released condition;
[0287] FIG. 271 is a perspective view of an end effector comprising
a tissue thickness compensator sock;
[0288] FIG. 272 is a rear perspective of the tissue thickness
compensator sock in FIG. 271;
[0289] FIG. 273 is a perspective view of an end effector comprising
a plurality of rails extending from a support portion and a tissue
thickness compensator having a longitudinal cavity defined
therein;
[0290] FIG. 274 is a perspective view of the tissue thickness
compensator of FIG. 273;
[0291] FIG. 275 is a perspective view of an end effector comprising
a plurality of teeth extending from a support portion and a tissue
thickness compensator engaged therewith;
[0292] FIG. 276 is a perspective view of an anvil comprising a
pocket array in accordance with at least one embodiment;
[0293] FIG. 277 is a partial detail view of the anvil of FIG.
276;
[0294] FIG. 278 is a partial longitudinal cross-sectional view of
the anvil of FIG. 276;
[0295] FIG. 279 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the anvil
of FIG. 276;
[0296] FIG. 280 is an elevational view of a fired staple comprising
a substantially B-shaped configuration;
[0297] FIG. 281 is an elevational view of a fired staple comprising
one leg deformed inwardly and one leg deformed outwardly;
[0298] FIG. 282 is an elevational view of a fired staple comprising
both legs formed outwardly;
[0299] FIG. 283 is a partial perspective view of a support portion
of a staple cartridge comprising detachable and/or displaceable
staple leg guides;
[0300] FIG. 284 is a partial cross-sectional view of the staple
cartridge of FIG. 283 illustrating staples being deployed from the
staple cartridge;
[0301] FIG. 285 is a detail view of the cross-sectional view of
FIG. 284 after the staple cartridge has been fired;
[0302] FIG. 286 is an exploded view of a staple cartridge including
a tissue thickness compensator comprising voids defined
therein;
[0303] FIG. 287 is a diagram illustrating the tissue thickness
compensator of FIG. 286 implanted against tissue;
[0304] FIG. 288 is another diagram illustrating the tissue
thickness compensator of FIG. 286 implanted against tissue;
[0305] FIG. 289 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a staple
cartridge comprising lateral retention members extending from a
support portion thereof configured to hold a tissue thickness
compensator in position;
[0306] FIG. 290 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge
of FIG. 289 being utilized to staple tissue;
[0307] FIG. 291 is another cross-sectional view of the staple
cartridge of FIG. 289 illustrating the support portion being moved
away from the implanted tissue thickness compensator;
[0308] FIG. 292 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a staple
cartridge comprising lateral retention members configured to hold a
tissue thickness compensator to a support portion;
[0309] FIG. 293 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge
of FIG. 292 being utilized to staple tissue;
[0310] FIG. 294 is another cross-sectional view of the staple
cartridge of FIG. 292 illustrating the support portion being moved
away from the implanted tissue thickness compensator;
[0311] FIG. 295 is a cross-sectional detail view of a retainer
holding a tissue thickness compensator to a support portion of a
staple cartridge in accordance with at least one embodiment;
[0312] FIG. 296 is partial cut-away view of a staple cartridge
comprising staple drivers having different heights in accordance
with at least one embodiment;
[0313] FIG. 296A is a diagram illustrating the staple drivers of
FIG. 296 and staples having different unfired heights supported
thereon;
[0314] FIG. 297 is a diagram illustrating a tissue thickness
compensator comprising a varying thickness, staple drivers having
different heights, and staples having different unformed
heights;
[0315] FIG. 298 is a diagram illustrating the staples and the
tissue thickness compensator of FIG. 297 implanted to tissue;
[0316] FIG. 299 is a partial cross-sectional view of a staple
cartridge comprising a tissue thickness compensator comprising a
varying thickness in accordance with at least one embodiment;
[0317] FIG. 300 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector of a
surgical stapling instrument in an open configuration;
[0318] FIG. 301 is cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG.
300 illustrated in a partially-fired configuration;
[0319] FIG. 302 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of
FIG. 300 illustrated in a re-opened configuration;
[0320] FIG. 303 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector of a
surgical stapling instrument comprising staple drivers having
different heights and a contoured deck surface in accordance with
at least one embodiment;
[0321] FIG. 304 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector of a
surgical stapling instrument comprising staple drivers having
different heights and a stepped deck surface in accordance with at
least one embodiment;
[0322] FIG. 305 is a perspective view of a staple cartridge being
loaded into an effector of a surgical stapling instrument utilizing
a staple cartridge applicator;
[0323] FIG. 306 is a bottom perspective view of the staple
cartridge applicator of FIG. 305;
[0324] FIG. 307 is a side view of the staple cartridge applicator
of FIG. 305 assembled to a staple cartridge;
[0325] FIG. 308 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG.
307;
[0326] FIG. 309 is a perspective view of a staple cartridge
applicator assembly further including an upper tissue thickness
compensator positioned on the top surface of the staple cartridge
applicator in accordance with at least one embodiment;
[0327] FIG. 310 is an exploded view of the upper tissue thickness
compensator and the staple cartridge applicator of FIG. 309;
[0328] FIG. 310A is an exploded view of a staple cartridge
applicator assembly comprising a pull member configured to detach
an upper tissue thickness compensator adhered to the staple
cartridge applicator;
[0329] FIG. 311 is a partial exploded view of a staple cartridge
applicator assembly in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0330] FIG. 312 is a perspective view of a staple cartridge
applicator assembly comprising an upper tissue thickness
compensator including a plurality of retention features extending
therefrom and a staple cartridge comprising a lower tissue
thickness compensator;
[0331] FIG. 313 is an elevational view of the staple cartridge
applicator assembly of FIG. 312 positioned within a staple
cartridge channel and an anvil being closed onto the staple
cartridge applicator assembly;
[0332] FIG. 314 is an elevational view of the anvil of FIG. 313 in
a re-opened position and the staple cartridge applicator of FIG.
312 being removed from the end effector;
[0333] FIG. 314A is a cross-sectional view of tissue positioned
intermediate the upper tissue thickness compensator and the lower
tissue thickness compensator of FIG. 312;
[0334] FIG. 314B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the upper
tissue thickness compensator and the lower tissue thickness
compensator stapled to the tissue and severed by a cutting
member;
[0335] FIG. 315 is a diagram illustrating a tissue thickness
compensator being inserted into an anvil in accordance with at
least one embodiment;
[0336] FIG. 316 is a cross-sectional view of the tissue thickness
compensator of FIG. 315;
[0337] FIG. 317 is an exploded view of a tissue thickness
compensator and an anvil in accordance with at least one
alternative embodiment;
[0338] FIG. 318 is a perspective view of staple cartridge
applicator assembly comprising an upper tissue thickness
compensator configured to be attached to an anvil in accordance
with at least one embodiment;
[0339] FIG. 319 is an elevational view of the staple cartridge
applicator assembly of FIG. 318 positioned within a staple
cartridge channel and an anvil being moved toward the upper tissue
thickness compensator;
[0340] FIG. 320 illustrates the staple cartridge applicator of FIG.
318 being removed from the end effector after the upper tissue
thickness compensator has been engaged with the anvil;
[0341] FIG. 321 is a cross-sectional end view of the anvil being
moved toward the upper tissue thickness compensator of FIG.
318;
[0342] FIG. 322 is a cross-sectional end view of the anvil engaged
with the upper tissue thickness compensator;
[0343] FIG. 323 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector of a
surgical stapling instrument comprising a staple cartridge
including a segmentable tissue thickness compensator attached to a
support portion of the staple cartridge by a plurality of
fasteners;
[0344] FIG. 324 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of
FIG. 323 illustrating a firing member in a partially-fired
position;
[0345] FIG. 325 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of
FIG. 323 illustrating the support portion being moved away from the
partially-implanted tissue thickness compensator;
[0346] FIG. 326 is a partial perspective view of the support
portion of FIG. 323;
[0347] FIG. 327 is a perspective view of a staple-deploying sled in
accordance with at least one embodiment;
[0348] FIG. 328 is an elevational view of the sled of FIG. 327;
[0349] FIG. 329 is a perspective view of an end effector of a
surgical stapling instrument comprising a staple cartridge
including a tissue thickness compensator and a plurality of staple
guides positioned on the tissue thickness compensator;
[0350] FIG. 330 is a partial cross-sectional view of the tissue
thickness compensator and the staple guides of FIG. 329 in an
unfired configuration;
[0351] FIG. 331 is a partial cross-sectional view of the tissue
thickness compensator and the staple guides of FIG. 329 in a fired
configuration;
[0352] FIG. 332 is a cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge
comprising a tissue thickness compensator and a support portion in
accordance with at least one embodiment;
[0353] FIG. 333 is a partial cross-sectional view of a tissue
thickness compensator, a staple guide layer, and a staple in an
unfired position;
[0354] FIG. 334 is a partial cross-sectional view of a tissue
thickness compensator, a staple guide layer, and a staple in an
unfired position in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0355] FIG. 335 is a partial cross-sectional view of a tissue
thickness compensator, a staple guide layer, and a staple in an
unfired position in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0356] FIG. 336 is a partial cross-sectional view of a tissue
thickness compensator, a staple guide layer, and a staple in an
unfired position in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0357] FIG. 337 is a partial cross-sectional view of a tissue
thickness compensator, a staple guide layer, and a staple in an
unfired position in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0358] FIG. 338 is a partial cross-sectional view of a tissue
thickness compensator, a staple guide layer, and a staple in an
unfired position in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0359] FIG. 339 is a partial cross-sectional view of a tissue
thickness compensator, a staple guide layer, and a staple in an
unfired position in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0360] FIG. 340 is a detail view of a region surrounding a tip of
the staple of FIG. 339;
[0361] FIG. 341 is a partial cross-sectional view of a tissue
thickness compensator, a staple guide layer, and a staple in an
unfired position in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0362] FIG. 342 is a detail view of a region surrounding a tip of
the staple of FIG. 341;
[0363] FIG. 343 is a partial cross-sectional view of a tissue
thickness compensator, a staple guide layer, and a staple in an
unfired position in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0364] FIG. 344 is a perspective view of a staple guide layer and a
plurality of staples in an unfired position in accordance with at
least one alternative embodiment;
[0365] FIG. 345 is an end view of a tissue thickness compensator
configured to be used with a circular surgical stapler;
[0366] FIG. 346 is a perspective view of the tissue thickness
compensator and the circular surgical stapler of FIG. 345;
[0367] FIG. 347 is an end view of a tissue thickness compensator
configured to be used with a circular surgical stapler in
accordance with at least one alternative embodiment;
[0368] FIG. 348 is a perspective view of the tissue thickness
compensator and the circular surgical stapler of FIG. 347;
[0369] FIG. 349 is an end view of a tissue thickness compensator
configured to be used with a circular surgical stapler;
[0370] FIG. 350 is an end view of the tissue thickness compensator
of FIG. 349 in a partially expanded configuration;
[0371] FIG. 351 is an elevational view of a surgical stapling
instrument comprising a staple cartridge in accordance with at
least one embodiment;
[0372] FIG. 352 is an end view of the surgical stapling instrument
of FIG. 351 positioned relative to tissue;
[0373] FIG. 353 is an end view of the surgical stapling instrument
of FIG. 351 further comprising a tissue thickness compensator
positioned between the staple cartridge and the tissue;
[0374] FIG. 354 is a partial perspective view of staples deployed
into tissue from the surgical stapling instrument of FIG. 351
without a tissue thickness compensator;
[0375] FIG. 355 is a partial perspective view of staples deployed
into tissue from the surgical stapling instrument of FIG. 351 with
a tissue thickness compensator;
[0376] FIG. 356 is a partial cross-sectional view of the end
effector of the surgical stapling instrument of FIG. 351 comprising
an anvil plate in a first position;
[0377] FIG. 357 is a partial cross-sectional view of the end
effector of the surgical stapling instrument of FIG. 351
illustrating the anvil plate of FIG. 356 in a second position;
[0378] FIG. 358 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector of a
surgical stapling instrument comprising a staple cartridge
including a gap setting element;
[0379] FIG. 359 is a perspective view illustrating a firing member
cutting the gap setting element of FIG. 358 at the end of firing
stroke of the firing member;
[0380] FIG. 360 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector of a
surgical stapling instrument comprising a staple cartridge
including a flexible nose;
[0381] FIG. 361 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of
FIG. 360 illustrating the nose in a flexed configuration;
[0382] FIG. 362 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector of a
surgical stapling instrument comprising a staple cartridge
including a slidable portion;
[0383] FIG. 363 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of
FIG. 362 illustrating the slidable portion slid distally;
[0384] FIG. 364 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector of a
surgical stapling instrument comprising a support portion
comprising an inclined deck surface and a tissue thickness
compensator comprising a varying thickness;
[0385] FIG. 365 is a cross-sectional view of an end effector of a
surgical stapling instrument comprising a support portion
comprising an inclined deck surface and a tissue thickness
compensator comprising a uniform thickness;
[0386] FIG. 366 is a perspective view of a staple cartridge
comprising a tissue thickness compensator having a varying
thickness;
[0387] FIG. 367 is an end view of the staple cartridge of FIG.
366;
[0388] FIG. 368 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a tissue
thickness compensator comprising longitudinal layers;
[0389] FIG. 369 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a tissue
thickness compensator comprising a plurality of layers in
accordance with at least one alternative embodiment;
[0390] FIG. 370 is a perspective view of a disposable loading unit
comprising retention members configured to releasably hold a tissue
thickness compensator thereto;
[0391] FIG. 371 is a perspective view of a tissue thickness
compensator including retention members configured to releasably
hold the tissue thickness compensator to a disposable loading
unit;
[0392] FIG. 372 is a perspective view of the tissue thickness
compensator of FIG. 371 attached to a disposable loading unit;
[0393] FIG. 373 is an end view of the disposable loading unit of
FIG. 372;
[0394] FIG. 374 is a perspective view of a tissue thickness
compensator including retention members configured to releasably
hold the tissue thickness compensator to a disposable loading
unit;
[0395] FIG. 375 is a perspective view of the tissue thickness
compensator of FIG. 374 attached to a disposable loading unit;
[0396] FIG. 376 is an end view of the disposable loading unit of
FIG. 375;
[0397] FIG. 377 is a perspective view of a tissue thickness
compensator including a retention member configured to releasably
hold the tissue thickness compensator to a disposable loading
unit;
[0398] FIG. 378 is a perspective view of the tissue thickness
compensator of FIG. 377 attached to a disposable loading unit;
[0399] FIG. 379 is a perspective view of a tissue thickness
compensator applicator positioned within an effector of a
disposable loading unit;
[0400] FIG. 380 is a top perspective view of the tissue thickness
compensator applicator of FIG. 379;
[0401] FIG. 381 is a bottom perspective view of the tissue
thickness compensator applicator of FIG. 379;
[0402] FIG. 382 is a perspective view of a tissue thickness
compensator applicator positioned within an effector of a
disposable loading unit in accordance with at least one alternative
embodiment;
[0403] FIG. 383 is a top perspective view of the tissue thickness
compensator applicator of FIG. 382;
[0404] FIG. 384 is a bottom perspective view of the tissue
thickness compensator applicator of FIG. 382;
[0405] FIG. 385 is an elevational view of a disposable loading unit
including a pivotable jaw configured to support a staple
cartridge;
[0406] FIG. 386 is a cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge
comprising a tissue thickness compensator attached to a support
portion of the staple cartridge in accordance with at least one
embodiment;
[0407] FIG. 387 is a cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge
comprising a tissue thickness compensator attached to a support
portion of the staple cartridge in accordance with at least one
embodiment;
[0408] FIG. 388 is a cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge
comprising a tissue thickness compensator attached to a support
portion of the staple cartridge in accordance with at least one
embodiment; and
[0409] FIG. 389 is a perspective view of the tissue thickness
compensator of FIG. 387.
[0410] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding
parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out
herein illustrate certain embodiments of the invention, in one
form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting
the scope of the invention in any manner.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0411] The Applicant of the present application also owns the U.S.
patent applications identified below which were filed on Sep. 30,
2010 and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their
respective entirety:
[0412] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,360, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080484, entitled SURGICAL
STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH A VARIABLE STAPLE FORMING SYSTEM;
[0413] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,322, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080501, entitled SURGICAL
STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH INTERCHANGEABLE STAPLE CARTRIDGE
ARRANGEMENTS;
[0414] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,351, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080502, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING
AND FASTENING INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARATE AND DISTINCT FASTENER
DEPLOYMENT AND TISSUE CUTTING SYSTEMS;
[0415] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,339, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080500, entitled SURGICAL
STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH COMPACT ARTICULATION CONTROL
ARRANGEMENT;
[0416] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,327, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080499, entitled JAW CLOSURE
ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;
[0417] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,311, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080496, entitled SURGICAL
INSTRUMENTS WITH RECONFIGURABLE SHAFT SEGMENTS;
[0418] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,340, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080482, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE
CARTRIDGES SUPPORTING NON-LINEARLY ARRANGED STAPLES AND SURGICAL
STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH COMMON STAPLE-FORMING POCKETS;
[0419] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,350, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080478, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE
CARTRIDGES WITH DETACHABLE SUPPORT STRUCTURES AND SURGICAL STAPLING
INSTRUMENTS WITH SYSTEMS FOR PREVENTING ACTUATION MOTIONS WHEN A
CARTRIDGE IS NOT PRESENT;
[0420] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,338, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080481, entitled IMPLANTABLE
FASTENER CARTRIDGE HAVING A NON-UNIFORM ARRANGEMENT;
[0421] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,312, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080479, entitled IMPLANTABLE
FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING MULTIPLE LAYERS;
[0422] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,377, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080334, entitled SELECTIVELY
ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE;
[0423] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,383, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080345, entitled IMPLANTABLE
FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING BIOABSORBABLE LAYERS;
[0424] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,389, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080335, entitled COMPRESSIBLE
FASTENER CARTRIDGE;
[0425] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,345, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080483, entitled FASTENERS
SUPPORTED BY A FASTENER CARTRIDGE SUPPORT;
[0426] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,306, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080332, entitled COLLAPSIBLE
FASTENER CARTRIDGE;
[0427] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,318, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080480, entitled FASTENER SYSTEM
COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF CONNECTED RETENTION MATRIX ELEMENTS;
[0428] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,330, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080503, entitled FASTENER SYSTEM
COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX AND AN ALIGNMENT MATRIX;
[0429] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,361, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080333, entitled FASTENER SYSTEM
COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX;
[0430] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,367, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080485, entitled FASTENING
INSTRUMENT FOR DEPLOYING A FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A RETENTION
MATRIX;
[0431] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,388, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080487, entitled FASTENER SYSTEM
COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX AND A COVER;
[0432] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,376, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080486, entitled FASTENER SYSTEM
COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF FASTENER CARTRIDGES; and
[0433] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/894,369, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080344, entitled IMPLANTABLE
FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A SUPPORT RETAINER.
[0434] The Applicant of the present application also owns the U.S.
patent applications identified below which were filed on Apr. 29,
2011, and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their
respective entirety:
[0435] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,907, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080338, entitled COMPRESSIBLE
STAPLE CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLY;
[0436] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,861, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080337, entitled TISSUE THICKNESS
COMPENSATOR COMPRISING PORTIONS HAVING DIFFERENT PROPERTIES;
[0437] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,948, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0083836, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE
COMPRISING AN ADJUSTABLE DISTAL PORTION;
[0438] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,936, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080339, entitled TISSUE THICKNESS
COMPENSATOR FOR A SURGICAL STAPLER;
[0439] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,865, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080488, entitled SURGICAL STAPLER
ANVIL COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF FORMING POCKETS;
[0440] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,869, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0160721, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE
LOADING ASSEMBLY;
[0441] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,954, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080340, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE
COMPRISING A VARIABLE THICKNESS COMPRESSIBLE PORTION;
[0442] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,928, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080490, entitled TISSUE THICKNESS
COMPENSATOR COMPRISING DETACHABLE PORTIONS;
[0443] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,891, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080489, entitled TISSUE THICKNESS
COMPENSATOR FOR A SURGICAL STAPLER COMPRISING AN ADJUSTABLE
ANVIL;
[0444] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,917, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0083834, entitled COMPRESSIBLE
STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING ALIGNMENT MEMBERS;
[0445] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,873, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0083833, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE
COMPRISING A RELEASABLE PORTION;
[0446] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,938, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0080491, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE
COMPRISING COMPRESSIBLE DISTORTION RESISTANT COMPONENTS; and
[0447] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/097,924, now U.S. Patent
Application Publication No. 2012/0083835, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE
COMPRISING A TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR.
[0448] Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to
provide an overall understanding of the principles of the
structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and
methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments
are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary
skill in the art will understand that the devices and methods
specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying
drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments and that the scope
of the various embodiments of the present invention is defined
solely by the claims. The features illustrated or described in
connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with the
features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations
are intended to be included within the scope of the present
invention.
[0449] Reference throughout the specification to "various
embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," or "an
embodiment", or the like, means that a particular feature,
structure, or characteristic described in connection with the
embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus,
appearances of the phrases "in various embodiments," "in some
embodiments," "in one embodiment", or "in an embodiment", or the
like, in places throughout the specification are not necessarily
all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular
features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any
suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, the particular
features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described
in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in
part, with the features structures, or characteristics of one or
more other embodiments without limitation. Such modifications and
variations are intended to be included within the scope of the
present invention.
[0450] The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein with
reference to a clinician manipulating the handle portion of the
surgical instrument. The term "proximal" referring to the portion
closest to the clinician and the term "distal" referring to the
portion located away from the clinician. It will be further
appreciated that, for convenience and clarity, spatial terms such
as "vertical", "horizontal", "up", and "down" may be used herein
with respect to the drawings. However, surgical instruments are
used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not
intended to be limiting and/or absolute.
[0451] Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for
performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures.
However, the person of ordinary skill in the art will readily
appreciate that the various methods and devices disclosed herein
can be used in numerous surgical procedures and applications
including, for example, in connection with open surgical
procedures. As the present Detailed Description proceeds, those of
ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that the various
instruments disclosed herein can be inserted into a body in any
way, such as through a natural orifice, through an incision or
puncture hole formed in tissue, etc. The working portions or end
effector portions of the instruments can be inserted directly into
a patient's body or can be inserted through an access device that
has a working channel through which the end effector and elongated
shaft of a surgical instrument can be advanced.
[0452] Turning to the Drawings wherein like numerals denote like
components throughout the several views, FIG. 1 depicts a surgical
instrument 10 that is capable of practicing several unique
benefits. The surgical stapling instrument 10 is designed to
manipulate and/or actuate various forms and sizes of end effectors
12 that are operably attached thereto. In the embodiment depicted
in FIGS. 1-1E, for example, the end effector 12 includes an
elongated channel 14 that forms a lower jaw 13 of the end effector
12. The elongated channel 14 is configured to support an
"implantable" staple cartridge 30 and also movably support an anvil
20 that functions as an upper jaw 15 of the end effector 12.
[0453] In various embodiments, the elongated channel 14 may be
fabricated from, for example, 300 & 400 Series, 17-4 & 17-7
stainless steel, titanium, etc. and be formed with spaced side
walls 16. The anvil 20 may be fabricated from, for example, 300
& 400 Series, 17-4 & 17-7 stainless steel, titanium, etc.
and have a staple forming undersurface, generally labeled as 22
that has a plurality of staple forming pockets 23 formed therein.
See FIGS. 1B-1E. In addition, the anvil 20 has a bifurcated ramp
assembly 24 that protrudes proximally therefrom. An anvil pin 26
protrudes from each lateral side of the ramp assembly 24 to be
received within a corresponding slot or opening 18 in the side
walls 16 of the elongated channel 14 to facilitate its movable or
pivotable attachment thereto.
[0454] Various forms of implantable staple cartridges may be
employed with the various embodiments of the surgical instruments
disclosed herein. Specific staple cartridge configurations and
constructions will be discussed in further detail below. However,
in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1A, an implantable staple
cartridge 30 is shown. In at least one embodiment, the staple
cartridge 30 has a body portion 31 that consists of a compressible
hemostat material such as, for example, oxidized regenerated
cellulose ("ORC") or a bio-absorbable foam in which lines of
unformed metal staples 32 are supported. In at least some
embodiments, in order to prevent the staple from being affected and
the hemostat material from being activated during the introduction
and positioning process, the entire cartridge may be coated or
wrapped in a biodegradable film 38 such as a polydioxanon film sold
under the trademark PDS.RTM. or with a Polyglycerol sebacate (PGS)
film or other biodegradable films formed from PGA (Polyglycolic
acid, marketed under the trade mark Vicryl), PCL
(Polycaprolactone), PLA or PLLA (Polylactic acid), PHA
(polyhydroxyalkanoate), PGCL (poliglecaprone 25, sold under the
trademark Monocryl) or a composite of PGA, PCL, PLA, PDS that would
be impermeable until ruptured. The body 31 of staple cartridge 30
is sized to be removably supported within the elongated channel 14
as shown such that each staple 32 therein is aligned with
corresponding staple forming pockets 23 in the anvil when the anvil
20 is driven into forming contact with the staple cartridge 30.
[0455] In use, once the end effector 12 has been positioned
adjacent the target tissue, the end effector 12 is manipulated to
capture or clamp the target tissue between an upper face 36 of the
staple cartridge 30 and the staple forming surface 22 of the anvil
20. The staples 32 are formed by moving the anvil 20 in a path that
is substantially parallel to the elongated channel 14 to bring the
staple forming surface 22 and, more particularly, the staple
forming pockets 23 therein into substantially simultaneous contact
with the upper face 36 of the staple cartridge 30. As the anvil 20
continues to move into the staple cartridge 30, the legs 34 of the
staples 32 contact a corresponding staple forming pocket 23 in
anvil 20 which serves to bend the staple legs 34 over to form the
staples 32 into a "B shape". Further movement of the anvil 20
toward the elongated channel 14 will further compress and form the
staples 32 to a desired final formed height "FF".
[0456] The above-described staple forming process is generally
depicted in FIGS. 1B-1E. For example, FIG. 1B illustrates the end
effector 12 with target tissue "T" between the anvil 20 and the
upper face 36 of the implantable staple cartridge 30. FIG. 10
illustrates the initial clamping position of the anvil 20 wherein
the anvil has 20 been closed onto the target tissue "T" to clamp
the target tissue "T" between the anvil 20 and the upper face 36 of
the staple cartridge 30. FIG. 1D illustrates the initial staple
formation wherein the anvil 20 has started to compress the staple
cartridge 30 such that the legs 34 of the staples 32 are starting
to be formed by the staple forming pockets 23 in the anvil 20. FIG.
1E illustrates the staple 32 in its final formed condition through
the target tissue "T" with the anvil 20 removed for clarity
purposes. Once the staples 32 have been formed and fastened to the
target tissue "T", the surgeon will move the anvil 20 to the open
position to enable the cartridge body 31 and the staples 32 to
remain affixed to the target tissue while the end effector 12 is
being withdrawn from the patient. The end effector 12 forms all of
the staples simultaneously as the two jaws 13, 15 are clamped
together. The remaining "crushed" body materials 31 act as both a
hemostat (the ORC) and a staple line reinforcement (PGA, PDS or any
of the other film compositions mentioned above 38). Also, since the
staples 32 never have to leave the cartridge body 31 during
forming, the likelihood of the staples 32 being malformed during
forming is minimized. As used herein the term "implantable" means
that, in addition to the staples, the cartridge body materials that
support the staples will also remain in the patient and may
eventually be absorbed by the patient's body. Such implantable
staple cartridges are distinguishable from prior cartridge
arrangements that remain positioned within the end effector in
their entirety after they have been fired.
[0457] In various implementations, the end effector 12 is
configured to be coupled to an elongated shaft assembly 40 that
protrudes from a handle assembly 100. The end effector 12 (when
closed) and the elongated shaft assembly 40 may have similar
cross-sectional shapes and be sized to operably pass through a
trocar tube or working channel in another form of access
instrument. As used herein, the term "operably pass" means that the
end effector and at least a portion of the elongated shaft assembly
may be inserted through or passed through the channel or tube
opening and can be manipulated therein as needed to complete the
surgical stapling procedure. In some embodiments, when in a closed
position, the jaws 13 and 15 of the end effector 12 may provide the
end effector with a roughly circular cross-sectional shape that
facilitates its passage through a circular passage/opening.
However, the end effectors of various embodiments of the present
invention, as well as the elongated shaft assembly embodiments,
could conceivably be provided with other cross-sectional shapes
that could otherwise pass through access passages and openings that
have non-circular cross-sectional shapes. Thus, an overall size of
a cross-section of a closed end effector will be related to the
size of the passage or opening through which it is intended to
pass. Thus, one end effector for example, may be referred to as a
"5 mm" end effector which means it can operably pass through an
opening that is at least approximately 5 mm in diameter.
[0458] In various embodiments, the elongated shaft assembly 40 may
have an outer diameter that is substantially the same as the outer
diameter of the end effector 12 when in a closed position. For
example, a 5 mm end effector may be coupled to an elongated shaft
assembly 40 that has 5 mm cross-sectional diameter. However, as the
present Detailed Description proceeds, it will become apparent that
various embodiments of the present may be effectively used in
connection with different sizes of end effectors. For example, a 10
mm end effector may be attached to an elongated shaft that has a 5
mm cross-sectional diameter. Conversely, for those applications
wherein a 10 mm or larger access opening or passage is provided,
the elongated shaft assembly 40 may have a 10 mm (or larger)
cross-sectional diameter, but may also be able to actuate a 5 mm or
10 mm end effector. Accordingly, the outer shaft 40 may have an
outer diameter that is the same as or is different from the outer
diameter of a closed end effector 12 attached thereto.
[0459] As depicted, the elongated shaft assembly 40 extends
distally from the handle assembly 100 in a generally straight line
to define a longitudinal axis A-A. In various embodiments, for
example, the elongated shaft assembly 40 may be approximately 9-16
inches (229-406 mm) long. However, the elongated shaft assembly 40
may be provided in other lengths and, in other embodiments, may
have joints therein or be otherwise configured to facilitate
articulation of the end effector 12 relative to other portions of
the shaft or handle assembly as will be discussed in further detail
below. In various embodiments, the elongated shaft assembly 40
includes a spine member 50 that extends from the handle assembly
100 to the end effector 12. The proximal end of the elongated
channel 14 of the end effector 12 has a pair of retention trunnions
17 protruding therefrom that are sized to be received within
corresponding trunnion openings or cradles 52 that are provided in
a distal end of the spine member 50 to enable the end effector 12
to be removably coupled the elongated shaft assembly 40. The spine
member 50 may be fabricated from, for example, 6061 or 7075
aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, etc.
[0460] In various embodiments, the handle assembly 100 comprises a
pistol grip-type housing that may be fabricated in two or more
pieces for assembly purposes. For example, the handle assembly 100
as shown comprises a right hand case member 102 and a left hand
case member (not illustrated) that are molded or otherwise
fabricated from a polymer or plastic material and are designed to
mate together. Such case members may be attached together by snap
features, pegs and sockets molded or otherwise formed therein
and/or by adhesive, screws, etc. The spine member 50 has a proximal
end 54 that has a flange 56 formed thereon. The flange 56 is
configured to be rotatably supported within a groove 106 formed by
mating ribs 108 that protrude inwardly from each of the case
members 102, 104. Such arrangement facilitates the attachment of
the spine member 50 to the handle assembly 100 while enabling the
spine member 50 to be rotated relative to the handle assembly 100
about the longitudinal axis A-A in a 360.degree. path.
[0461] As can be further seen in FIG. 1, the spine member 50 passes
through and is supported by a mounting bushing 60 that is rotatably
affixed to the handle assembly 100. The mounting bushing 60 has a
proximal flange 62 and a distal flange 64 that define a rotational
groove 65 that is configured to rotatably receive a nose portion
101 of the handle assembly 100 therebetween. Such arrangement
enables the mounting bushing 60 to rotate about longitudinal axis
A-A relative to the handle assembly 100. The spine member 50 is
non-rotatably pinned to the mounting bushing 60 by a spine pin 66.
In addition, a rotation knob 70 is attached to the mounting bushing
60. In one embodiment, for example, the rotation knob 70 has a
hollow mounting flange portion 72 that is sized to receive a
portion of the mounting bushing 60 therein. In various embodiments,
the rotation knob 70 may be fabricated from, for example, glass or
carbon filled Nylon, polycarbonate, Ultem.RTM., etc. and is affixed
to the mounting bushing 60 by the spine pin 66 as well. In
addition, an inwardly protruding retention flange 74 is formed on
the mounting flange portion 72 and is configured to extend into a
radial groove 68 formed in the mounting bushing 60. Thus, the
surgeon may rotate the spine member 50 (and the end effector 12
attached thereto) about longitudinal axis A-A in a 360.degree. path
by grasping the rotation knob 70 and rotating it relative to the
handle assembly 100.
[0462] In various embodiments, the anvil 20 is retained in an open
position by an anvil spring 21 and/or another biasing arrangement.
The anvil 20 is selectively movable from the open position to
various closed or clamping and firing positions by a firing system,
generally designated as 109. The firing system 109 includes a
"firing member" 110 which, in various embodiments, comprises a
hollow firing tube 110. The hollow firing tube 110 is axially
movable on the spine member 50 and thus forms the outer portion of
the elongated shaft assembly 40. The firing tube 110 may be
fabricated from a polymer or other suitable material and have a
proximal end that is attached to a firing yoke 114 of the firing
system 109. In various embodiments for example, the firing yoke 114
may be over-molded to the proximal end of the firing tube 110.
However, other fastener arrangements may be employed.
[0463] As can be seen in FIG. 1, the firing yoke 114 may be
rotatably supported within a support collar 120 that is configured
to move axially within the handle assembly 100. In various
embodiments, the support collar 120 has a pair of laterally
extending fins that are sized to be slidably received within fin
slots formed in the right and left hand case members. Thus, the
support collar 120 may slide axially within the handle housing 100
while enabling the firing yoke 114 and firing tube 110 to rotate
relative thereto about the longitudinal axis A-A. In various
embodiments, a longitudinal slot is provided through the firing
tube 110 to enable the spine pin 66 to extend therethrough into the
spine member 50 while facilitating the axial travel of the firing
tube 110 on the spine member 50.
[0464] The firing system 109 further comprises a firing trigger 130
which serves to control the axial travel of the firing tube 110 on
the spine member 50. See FIG. 1. Such axial movement in the distal
direction of the firing tube 110 into firing interaction with the
anvil 20 is referred to herein as "firing motion". As can be seen
in FIG. 1, the firing trigger 130 is movably or pivotally coupled
to the handle assembly 100 by a pivot pin 132. A torsion spring 135
is employed to bias the firing trigger 130 away from the pistol
grip portion 107 of the handle assembly 100 to an un-actuated
"open" or starting position. As can be seen in FIG. 1, the firing
trigger 130 has an upper portion 134 that is movably attached to
(pinned) firing links 136 that are movably attached to (pinned) the
support collar 120. Thus, movement of the firing trigger 130 from
the starting position (FIG. 1) toward an ending position adjacent
the pistol grip portion 107 of the handle assembly 100 will cause
the firing yoke 114 and the firing tube 110 to move in the distal
direction "DD". Movement of the firing trigger 130 away from the
pistol grip portion 107 of the handle assembly 100 (under the bias
of the torsion spring 135) will cause the firing yoke 114 and
firing tube 110 to move in the proximal direction "PD" on the spine
member 50.
[0465] Various embodiments of the present invention may be employed
with different sizes and configurations of implantable staple
cartridges. For example, the surgical instrument 10, when used in
connection with a first firing adapter 140, may be used with a 5 mm
end effector 12 that is approximately 20 mm long (or in other
lengths) which supports an implantable staple cartridge 30. Such
end effector size may be particularly well-suited, for example, to
complete relatively fine dissection and vascular transactions.
However, as will be discussed in further detail below, the surgical
instrument 10 may also be employed, for example, in connection with
other sizes of end effectors and staple cartridges by replacing the
first firing adapter 140 with a second firing adapter. In still
other embodiments, the elongated shaft assembly 40 may configured
to be attached to only one form or size of end effector.
[0466] One method of removably coupling the end effector 12 to the
spine member 50 will now be explained. The coupling process is
commenced by inserting the retention trunnions 17 on the elongated
channel 14 into the trunnion cradles 52 in the spine member 50.
Thereafter, the surgeon advances the firing trigger 130 toward the
pistol grip 107 of the housing assembly 100 to distally advance the
firing tube 110 and the first firing adapter 140 over a proximal
end portion 47 of the elongated channel 14 to thereby retain the
trunnions 17 in their respective cradles 52. Such position of the
first firing adapter 140 over the trunnions 17 is referred to
herein as the "coupled position". Various embodiments of the
present invention may also have an end effector locking assembly
for locking the firing trigger 130 in position after an end
effector 12 has been attached to the spine member 50.
[0467] More specifically, one embodiment of the end effector
locking assembly 160 includes a retention pin 162 that is movably
supported in the upper portion 134 of the firing trigger 130. As
discussed above, the firing tube 110 must initially be advanced
distally to the coupled position wherein the first firing adapter
140 retains the retention trunnions 17 of the end effector 12 in
the trunnion cradles 52 in the spine member 50. The surgeon
advances the firing adapter 140 distally to the coupled position by
pulling the firing trigger 130 from the starting position toward
the pistol grip 107. As the firing trigger 130 is initially
actuated, the retention pin 162 is moved distally until the firing
tube 110 has advanced the first firing adapter 140 to the coupled
position at which point the retention pin 162 is biased into a
locking cavity 164 formed in the case member. In various
embodiments, when the retention pin 162 enters into the locking
cavity 164, the pin 162 may make an audible "click" or other sound,
as well as provide a tactile indication to the surgeon that the end
effector 12 has been "locked" onto the spine member 50. In
addition, the surgeon cannot inadvertently continue to actuate the
firing trigger 130 to start to form staples 32 in the end effector
12 without intentionally biasing the retention pin 162 out of the
locking cavity 164. Similarly, if the surgeon releases the firing
trigger 130 when in the coupled position, it is retained in that
position by the retention pin 162 to prevent the firing trigger 130
from returning to the starting position and thereby releasing the
end effector 12 from the spine member 50.
[0468] Various embodiments of the present invention may further
include a firing system lock button 137 that is pivotally attached
to the handle assembly 100. In one form, the firing system lock
button 137 has a latch 138 formed on a distal end thereof that is
oriented to engage the firing yoke 114 when the firing release
button is in a first latching position. As can be seen in FIG. 1, a
latch spring 139 serves to bias the firing system lock button 137
to the first latching position. In various circumstances, the latch
138 serves to engage the firing yoke 114 at a point where the
position of the firing yoke 114 on the spine member 50 corresponds
to a point wherein the first firing adapter 140 is about to
distally advance up the clamping ramp 28 on the anvil 20. It will
be understood that, as the first firing adapter 140 advances
axially up the clamping ramp 28, the anvil 20 will move in a path
such that its staple forming surface portion 22 is substantially
parallel to the upper face 36 of the staple cartridge 30.
[0469] After the end effector 12 has been coupled to the spine
member 50, the staple forming process is commenced by first
depressing the firing system lock button 137 to enable the firing
yoke 114 to be further moved distally on the spine member 50 and
ultimately compress the anvil 20 into the staple cartridge 30.
After depressing the firing system lock button 137, the surgeon
continues to actuate the firing trigger 130 towards the pistol grip
107 thereby driving the first staple collar 140 up the
corresponding staple forming ramp 29 to force the anvil 20 into
forming contact with the staples 32 in the staple cartridge 30. The
firing system lock button 137 prevents the inadvertent forming of
the staples 32 until the surgeon is ready to start that process. In
this embodiment, the surgeon must depress the firing system lock
button 137 before the firing trigger 130 may be further actuated to
begin the staple forming process.
[0470] The surgical instrument 10 may be solely used as a tissue
stapling device if so desired. However, various embodiments of the
present invention may also include a tissue cutting system,
generally designated as 170. In at least one form, the tissue
cutting system 170 comprises a knife member 172 that may be
selectively advanced from an un-actuated position adjacent the
proximal end of the end effector 12 to an actuated position by
actuating a knife advancement trigger 200. The knife member 172 is
movably supported within the spine member 50 and is attached or
otherwise protrudes from a knife rod 180. The knife member 172 may
be fabricated from, for example, 420 or 440 stainless steel with a
hardness of greater than 38HRC (Rockwell Hardness C-scale) and have
a tissue cutting edge 176 formed on the distal end 174 thereof and
be configured to slidably extend through a slot in the anvil 20 and
a centrally disposed slot 33 in the staple cartridge 30 to cut
through tissue that is clamped in the end effector 12. In various
embodiments, the knife rod 180 extends through the spine member 50
and has a proximal end portion which drivingly interfaces with a
knife transmission that is operably attached to the knife advance
trigger 200. In various embodiments, the knife advance trigger 200
is attached to pivot pin 132 such that it may be pivoted or
otherwise actuated without actuating the firing trigger 130. In
various embodiments, a first knife gear 192 is also attached to the
pivot pin 132 such that actuation of the knife advance trigger 200
also pivots the first knife gear 192. A firing return spring 202 is
attached between the first knife gear 192 and the handle housing
100 to bias the knife advancement trigger 200 to a starting or
un-actuated position.
[0471] Various embodiments of the knife transmission also include a
second knife gear 194 that is rotatably supported on a second gear
spindle and in meshing engagement with the first knife gear 192.
The second knife gear 194 is in meshing engagement with a third
knife gear 196 that is supported on a third gear spindle. Also
supported on the third gear spindle 195 is a fourth knife gear 198.
The fourth knife gear 198 is adapted to drivingly engage a series
of annular gear teeth or rings on a proximal end of the knife rod
180. Thus, such arrangement enables the fourth knife gear 198 to
axially drive the knife rod 180 in the distal direction "DD" or
proximal direction "PD" while enabling the firing rod 180 to rotate
about longitudinal axis A-A with respect to the fourth knife gear
198. Accordingly, the surgeon may axially advance the firing rod
180 and ultimately the knife member 172 distally by pulling the
knife advancement trigger 200 towards the pistol grip 107 of the
handle assembly 100.
[0472] Various embodiments of the present invention further include
a knife lockout system 210 that prevents the advancement of the
knife member 172 unless the firing trigger 130 has been pulled to
the fully fired position. Such feature will therefore prevent the
activation of the knife advancement system 170 unless the staples
have first been fired or formed into the tissue. As can be seen in
FIG. 1, various implementations of the knife lockout system 210
comprise a knife lockout bar 211 that is pivotally supported within
the pistol grip portion 107 of the handle assembly 100. The knife
lockout bar 211 has an activation end 212 that is adapted to be
engaged by the firing trigger 130 when the firing trigger 130 is in
the fully fired position. In addition, the knife lockout bar 211
has a retaining hook 214 on its other end that is adapted to
hookingly engage a latch rod 216 on the first cut gear 192. A knife
lock spring 218 is employed to bias the knife lockout bar 211 to a
"locked" position wherein the retaining hook 214 is retained in
engagement with the latch rod 216 to thereby prevent actuation of
the knife advancement trigger 200 unless the firing trigger 130 is
in the fully fired position.
[0473] After the staples have been "fired" (formed) into the target
tissue, the surgeon may depress the firing trigger release button
167 to enable the firing trigger 130 to return to the starting
position under the bias of the torsion spring 135 which enables the
anvil 20 to be biased to an open position under the bias of spring
21. When in the open position, the surgeon may withdraw the end
effector 12 leaving the implantable staple cartridge 30 and staples
32 behind. In applications wherein the end effector was inserted
through a passage, working channel, etc. the surgeon will return
the anvil 20 to the closed position by activating the firing
trigger 130 to enable the end effector 12 to be withdrawn out
through the passage or working channel. If, however, the surgeon
desires to cut the target tissue after firing the staples, the
surgeon activates the knife advancement trigger 200 in the
above-described manner to drive the knife bar 172 through the
target tissue to the end of the end effector. Thereafter, the
surgeon may release the knife advancement trigger 200 to enable the
firing return spring 202 to cause the firing transmission to return
the knife bar 172 to the starting (un-actuated) position. Once the
knife bar 172 has been returned to the starting position, the
surgeon may open the end effector jaws 13, 15 to release the
implantable cartridge 30 within the patient and then withdraw the
end effector 12 from the patient. Thus, such surgical instruments
facilitate the use of small implantable staple cartridges that may
be inserted through relatively smaller working channels and
passages, while providing the surgeon with the option to fire the
staples without cutting tissue or if desired to also cut tissue
after the staples have been fired.
[0474] Various unique and novel embodiments of the present
invention employ a compressible staple cartridge that supports
staples in a substantially stationary position for forming contact
by the anvil. In various embodiments, the anvil is driven into the
unformed staples wherein, in at least one such embodiment, the
degree of staple formation attained is dependent upon how far the
anvil is driven into the staples. Such an arrangement provides the
surgeon with the ability to adjust the amount of forming or firing
pressure applied to the staples and thereby alter the final formed
height of the staples. In other various embodiments of the present
invention, surgical stapling arrangements can employ staple driving
elements which can lift the staples toward the anvil. Such
embodiments are described in greater detail further below.
[0475] In various embodiments, with regard to the embodiments
described in detail above, the amount of firing motion that is
applied to the movable anvil is dependent upon the degree of
actuation of the firing trigger. For example, if the surgeon
desires to attain only partially formed staples, then the firing
trigger is only partially depressed inward towards the pistol grip
107. To attain more staple formation, the surgeon simply compresses
the firing trigger further which results in the anvil being further
driven into forming contact with the staples. As used herein, the
term "forming contact" means that the staple forming surface or
staple forming pockets have contacted the ends of the staple legs
and have started to form or bend the legs over into a formed
position. The degree of staple formation refers to how far the
staple legs have been folded over and ultimately relates to the
forming height of the staple as referenced above. Those of ordinary
skill in the art will further understand that, because the anvil 20
moves in a substantially parallel relationship with respect to the
staple cartridge as the firing motions are applied thereto, the
staples are formed substantially simultaneously with substantially
the same formed heights.
[0476] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate an alternative end effector 12''
that is similar to the end effector 12' described above, except
with the following differences that are configured to accommodate a
knife bar 172'. The knife bar 172' is coupled to or protrudes from
a knife rod 180 and is otherwise operated in the above described
manner with respect to the knife bar 172. However, in this
embodiment, the knife bar 172' is long enough to traverse the
entire length of the end effector 12'' and therefore, a separate
distal knife member is not employed in the end effector 12''. The
knife bar 172' has an upper transverse member 173' and a lower
transverse member 175' formed thereon. The upper transverse member
173' is oriented to slidably transverse a corresponding elongated
slot 250 in anvil 20'' and the lower transverse member 175' is
oriented to traverse an elongated slot 252 in the elongated channel
14'' of the end effector 12''. A disengagement slot (not shown) is
also provided in the anvil 20'' such that when the knife bar 172'
has been driven to an ending position with thin end effector 12'',
the upper transverse member 173' drops through the corresponding
slot to enable the anvil 20'' to move to the open position to
disengage the stapled and cut tissue. The anvil 20'' may be
otherwise identical to anvil 20 described above and the elongated
channel 14'' may be otherwise identical to elongated channel 14
described above.
[0477] In these embodiments, the anvil 20'' is biased to a fully
open position (FIG. 2) by a spring or other opening arrangement
(not shown). The anvil 20'' is moved between the open and fully
clamped positions by the axial travel of the firing adapter 150 in
the manner described above. Once the firing adapter 150 has been
advanced to the fully clamped position (FIG. 3), the surgeon may
then advance the knife bar 172'' distally in the manner described
above. If the surgeon desires to use the end effector as a grasping
device to manipulate tissue, the firing adapter may be moved
proximally to allow the anvil 20'' to move away from the elongated
channel 14'' as represented in FIG. 4 in broken lines. In this
embodiment, as the knife bar 172'' moves distally, the upper
transverse member 173' and the lower transverse member 175' draw
the anvil 20'' and elongated channel 14'' together to achieve the
desired staple formation as the knife bar 172'' is advanced
distally through the end effector 12''. See FIG. 5. Thus, in this
embodiment, staple formation occurs simultaneously with tissue
cutting, but the staples themselves may be sequentially formed as
the knife bar 172'' is driven distally.
[0478] The unique and novel features of the various surgical staple
cartridges and the surgical instruments of the present invention
enable the staples in those cartridges to be arranged in one or
more linear or non-linear lines. A plurality of such staple lines
may be provided on each side of an elongated slot that is centrally
disposed within the staple cartridge for receiving the tissue
cutting member therethrough. In one arrangement, for example, the
staples in one line may be substantially parallel with the staples
in adjacent line(s) of staples, but offset therefrom. In still
other embodiments, one or more lines of staples may be non-linear
in nature. That is, the base of at least one staple in a line of
staples may extend along an axis that is substantially transverse
to the bases of other staples in the same staple line. For example,
as will be discussed in further detail below, in alternative
embodiments, the lines of staples on each side of the elongated
slot may have a zigzag appearance. Such non-linear staple
arrangements may attain better tissue fastening results with less
staples than various linear staple arrangements employed in prior
staple cartridges.
[0479] FIG. 6 illustrates use of a surgical staple cartridge
embodiment 900 in an end effector embodiment 612'. As can be seen
in FIGS. 6 and 7, an embodiment of the surgical staple cartridge
900 has a cartridge body 902 that has a centrally disposed
elongated slot 904 extending through a proximal end 903 to an area
adjacent a distal end 905. The elongated slot 904 is configured to
permit a knife body to axially move therethrough during a tissue
cutting operation in the manner described above. In at least one
embodiment, the cartridge body 902 consists of a compressible
hemostat material such as, for example, oxidized regenerated
cellulose ("ORC") or a bio-absorbable foam fabricated from, for
example, PGA (Polyglycolic acid, sold under the trademark Vicryl),
PCL (polycaprolactone), PLA or PLLA (Polyactic acid), PDS,
(Polydioxanone), PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate), PGCL (poliglecaprone
25, sold under the trademark Monocryl) or a composite of PGA, PCL,
PLA and PDS in which lines 920, 930 of unformed staples 922 are
supported. However, the cartridge body 902 may be fabricated from
other materials that serve to support the unformed staples 922 in a
desired orientation such that they may be compressed as the anvil
910' is brought into contact therewith. As with various other
embodiments described above, the staple cartridge 900 is
implantable and is left attached to the stapled tissue after the
stapling procedure has been completed. In at least some
embodiments, in order to prevent the staples 922 from being
affected and the hemostat material from being activated during the
introduction and positioning process, the entire cartridge 900 may
be coated or wrapped in a biodegradable film 906 such as a
polydioxanon film sold under the trademark PDS.RTM. or with a
Polyglycerol sebacate (PGS) film or other biodegradable films
fabricated from, for example, PGA (Polyglycolic acid, marketed
under the trade mark Vicryl), PCL (Polycaprolactone), PLA or PLLA
(Polylactic acid), PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate), PGCL (poliglecaprone
25, sold under the trademark Monocryl) or a composite of PGA, PCL,
PLA, PDS that would be impermeable until ruptured. The cartridge
body 902 of staple cartridge 900 is sized to be removably supported
within the elongated channel of the end effector 612'.
[0480] In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 6, 10, and 11, the
surgical staple cartridge 900 operably supports a first line 920 of
staples 922 on one lateral side 907 of the elongated slot 904 and a
second line 930 of staples 922 on the other lateral side 909 of the
elongated slot 904. In various embodiments, the staples 922 may be
fabricated from a metal material such as, for example, Titanium,
Titanium alloys (e.g., 6Al-4V Titanium, 3al-2.5V Titanium),
Stainless Steel, etc. and have a staple base 924 and two upstanding
staple legs 926 protruding therefrom. Each staple leg 926 may have
a tissue-piercing tip 928 formed thereon. In the first line 920 of
staples 922, the staple base 924 of at least one staple 922
overlaps the staple base of another staple 922. In a preferred
embodiment, the staple base 924 of each staple 922 overlaps the
staple bases 924 of two adjacent staples 922, except for the base
924 of the last staple 922 on each end of the first staple line
920. See FIG. 10. Thus, the first staple line 920 has a
substantially non-linear shape. More particularly, when viewed from
above, the first staple line 920 has a substantially zigzag
appearance.
[0481] As can be seen in FIG. 9, the anvil 90 has two sequential
longitudinal staple forming pockets 912 that each has a substantial
zigzag shape that corresponds to the shape of the first line 920 of
staples 922 such that, when the anvil 910 is brought into forming
contact with the staples 922, the legs 926 thereof are formed as
shown in FIG. 11. Thus, the distal leg of one staple shares the
same pocket as the proximal leg of the next staple longitudinally.
Such arrangement allows for a denser pocket pattern, even to a
point where the staples themselves interact (e.g., are folded over
one another). In prior staple pocket arrangements, in general,
there has to be between 0.005 and 0.015 inches of metal/space from
one set of pockets to the next. This embodiment of the present
invention, however, has a spacing arrangement from 0 to 0.02 inches
of interference/overlap (essentially a -0.020'') because one staple
mates with the next staple, for example. Such arrangements allow
for 15-30% more staples in the same space. Furthermore, when the
staples interlock, there is less need for multiple lateral rows of
staples. Prior arrangements commonly employ three rows on each side
of the tissue cut line to prevent the existing of an open path
through which blood may pass. Lines of interlocking staples are
less likely to leave paths through which blood may pass. Another
distinct advantage provided by the various interlocking staple
arrangements of the present invention relates to improved "burst
strength" which relates to the amount of force required to tear a
staple line open.
[0482] Another staple forming pocket arrangement may comprise a
common staple forming pocket. As used herein, the term "common
staple forming pocket" means that one forming pocket can form all
of the staples in a single line of staples as opposed to prior
anvil designs wherein a discrete forming pocket is provided for
each leg of each staple to be formed.
[0483] FIG. 12 illustrates yet another staple embodiment 922'
wherein the base 924' has an offset portion 929 to facilitate a
tighter overlap of the bases 924'. As indicated above, the staple
cartridge 900 has a second line 930 of staples 922 supported on a
second lateral side 909 of the elongated slot 904. The second line
930 of staples 922 is substantially identical to the first line 920
of staples 922. Thus, the anvil 910 has a second common staple
forming pocket 912 that corresponds to the second line of staples
930 for forming contact therewith. In alternative embodiments,
however, the second line 930 of staples 922 may differ from the
first line 920 of staples in shape and, perhaps, number of
staples.
[0484] FIG. 8 illustrates a surgical staple cartridge 900' that is
substantially identical to the staple cartridge 900 described
above, with the exception of the lines 920', 930' of staples 922
supported therein. For example, in this embodiment, the line 920'
of staples 922 are arranged relative to each other such that a base
axis S-S of at least one staple base 924 is substantially
transverse to the base axis S-S of the staple base 924 of at least
one other adjacent staple 922. Such predetermined pattern of
staples, when viewed from above, comprises a substantially zigzag
arrangement. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 13, the respective
bases 924 of staples 922 may additionally have a base support
member 927 overmolded thereon as shown. In various embodiments, the
base support member 927 may be fabricated from, for example,
non-absorbable plastic such as Polyether ether ketone "PEEK" or
absorbable plastic such as, for example, Polyglycolic acid "PGA",
Polylactic acid "PLA" or "PLLA", Polydioxanone "PDS", PCL
(polycaprolactone), PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate), PGCL
(poliglecaprone 25, sold under the trademark Monocryl) or various
composite mixes if PGS, PDS, PLA, PGA, and PCL. The base support
members 927 facilitate interlocking between the staples without
making the staples themselves overlap. Thus, such arrangements
could form staples with "B" shapes or inverted "W" shapes without
the legs of the staples themselves overlapping. However, the crowns
are connected by the base support members so they act like
overlapping staples. Such arrangements allow the combined pockets
to have two discrete paths for each leg.
[0485] The embodiment depicted in FIG. 14 employs a staple line
920'' wherein the legs 926 of adjacent staples 922 are coupled
together by a coupler portion 929 molded or otherwise attached
thereto. Each coupler portion 929 may be fabricated from, for
example, Polyether ether ketone "PEEK" or absorbable plastic such
as, for example, Polyglycolic acid "PGA", Polylactic acid "PLA" or
"PLLA", Polydioxanone "PDS", PCL (polycaprolactone), PHA
(polyhydroxyalkanoate), PGCL (poliglecaprone 25, sold under the
trademark Monocryl) or various composite mixes if PGS, PDS, PLA,
PGA, and PCL. Such staple line 920'' has substantial zigzag
appearance when viewed from above. While the various surgical
staple cartridge embodiments 900, 900' have been explained with
reference to use with the end effector 612', it will be understood
that the staple cartridges 900, 900' may be effectively employed
with the various other end effectors and surgical instruments
described hereinabove, with appropriate staple forming pocket
arrangements being provided in the anvils of those instruments in
order to achieved the desired amount of staple formation upon
movement of the anvils into forming contact with the staples.
[0486] FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate another surgical staple cartridge
940 embodiment supported in an elongated channel 14 of a surgical
instrument 10. In at least one embodiment, the surgical staple
cartridge 940 includes a cartridge body 942 that has a centrally
disposed elongated slot 944 extending at least partially
therethrough. The elongated slot 944 is configured to permit a
knife body of the surgical instrument 10 to axially move
therethrough during a tissue cutting operation in the manner
described above. In various embodiments, the cartridge body 942
consists of a compressible hemostat material such as, for example,
oxidized regenerated cellulose ("ORC") or a bio-absorbable foam of
the types described above or below in which lines 946, 948, 950,
952 of unformed staples 922 are supported. In at least some
embodiments, in order to prevent the staples 922 from being
affected and the hemostat material from being activated during the
introduction and positioning process, the entire cartridge 940 may
be coated or wrapped in a biodegradable film 954 such as a
polydioxanon film sold under the trademark PDS.RTM. or with a
Polyglycerol sebacate (PGS) film or other biodegradable films
fabricated from, for example, PGA (Polyglycolic acid, marketed
under the trade mark Vicryl), PCL (Polycaprolactone), PLA or PLLA
(Polylactic acid), PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate), PGCL (poliglecaprone
25, sold under the trademark Monocryl) or a composite of PGA, PCL,
PLA, PDS that would be impermeable until ruptured.
[0487] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 15, the cartridge 940
further includes a cartridge support member 960 that is coupled to
the cartridge body 942. In various embodiments, the cartridge
support member 960 may be fabricated from a rigid material such as,
for example, Titanium, Stainless Steel, Aluminum, any alloy of the
foregoing, etc. and may be partially embedded within the cartridge
body 942. In various embodiments, the cartridge support member 960
may be held in place by, for example, film 954. In still other
embodiments wherein a limited bond is desired, sporadic use of
cyanoacylate could be used to "glue" the two components together.
In yet other embodiments, the cartridge body 942 may be heated and
"welded" or "fused" to the cartridge support member 960. In various
embodiments, the cartridge support member 960 forms at least a
portion of the bottom surface of the cartridge body 942 for mating
with the elongated channel 14. In at least one embodiment, the
cartridge support member 960 has one or more snap features 962
protruding therefrom for releasably coupling the cartridge support
member 960 to the elongated channel 14. Other forms of snap
features/fastener arrangements may be employed for releasably
coupling the cartridge support member 960 to the elongated channel
14.
[0488] In various embodiments, the cartridge support member 960 has
a series of support ridges 964, 966, 968, 970, 972, 974, 976 formed
thereon to provide some lateral support to the bases 924 of the
staples 922 in the staple lines 946, 948, 950, 952 as shown in FIG.
15. Thus, in at least some embodiments, the support ridges are
substantially coextensive with the staple lines. FIG. 17
illustrates an alternative staple cartridge embodiment 940' that is
substantially identical to cartridge 940, except for the inclusion
of upstanding fin portions 978, 979, 980, 981, 982, 983 that
protrude from the support ridges 964, 966, 968, 970, 972, 976,
respectively to provide additional lateral support to the staples
922. In various embodiments, the fin portions may be integrally
formed with the cartridge support member 960 and have a height that
is about 1/2 or less of the height of the cartridge. Thus, in
various embodiments, for example, any standing features supporting
the foam cannot extend above the maximum compression height of the
foam. Thus, if the cartridge is designed, for example, to compress
to 1/3 of its original height when fired, the fins would between
66% of the uncompressed height, all the way down to 10% of
uncompressed height.
[0489] In use, once the staples 922 have been formed through
contact with the anvil 20 in the manner described above, the anvil
20 is opened and the end effector 12 is pulled away from the
stapled tissue. As the end effector 12 is pulled away from the
stapled tissue, the cartridge body 942 remains fastened to the
stapled tissue and is then separated from the cartridge support
member 960 which remains coupled to the elongated channel 14. In
various embodiments, the cartridge support member 960 is provided
with a color that differs from the color of the material comprising
the cartridge body 942 as well as the color of the elongated
channel 14. Such arrangement provides the surgeon with an easily
recognizable indication that no staple cartridge is present within
the end effector. Thus, the surgeon will not inadvertently attempt
to reinsert/use the end effector without first installing a new
staple cartridge therein. To do so, the surgeon simply disconnects
the snap features of the cartridge support member 960 from the
elongated channel 14 to enable the cartridge support member 960 of
a new staple cartridge 940 to be placed therein. While the staple
cartridges 940, 940' have been explained with reference to surgical
instrument 10, it will be understood that those cartridges may be
effectively employed with many of the other surgical instrument
embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present invention.
[0490] In various embodiments, a staple cartridge can comprise a
cartridge body and a plurality of staples stored within the
cartridge body. In use, the staple cartridge can be introduced into
a surgical site and positioned on a side of the tissue being
treated. In addition, a staple-forming anvil can be positioned on
the opposite side of the tissue. In various embodiments, the anvil
can be carried by a first jaw and the staple cartridge can be
carried by a second jaw, wherein the first jaw and/or the second
jaw can be moved toward the other. Once the staple cartridge and
the anvil have been positioned relative to the tissue, the staples
can be ejected from the staple cartridge body such that the staples
can pierce the tissue and contact the staple-forming anvil. Once
the staples have been deployed from the staple cartridge body, the
staple cartridge body can then be removed from the surgical site.
In various embodiments disclosed herein, a staple cartridge, or at
least a portion of a staple cartridge, can be implanted with the
staples. In at least one such embodiment, as described in greater
detail further below, a staple cartridge can comprise a cartridge
body which can be compressed, crushed, and/or collapsed by the
anvil when the anvil is moved from an open position into a closed
position. When the cartridge body is compressed, crushed, and/or
collapsed, the staples positioned within the cartridge body can be
deformed by the anvil. Alternatively, the jaw supporting the staple
cartridge can be moved toward the anvil into a closed position. In
either event, in various embodiments, the staples can be deformed
while they are at least partially positioned within the cartridge
body. In certain embodiments, the staples may not be ejected from
the staple cartridge while, in some embodiments, the staples can be
ejected from the staple cartridge along with a portion of the
cartridge body.
[0491] Referring now to FIGS. 18A-18D, a compressible staple
cartridge, such as staple cartridge 1000, for example, can comprise
a compressible, implantable cartridge body 1010 and, in addition, a
plurality of staples 1020 positioned in the compressible cartridge
body 1010, although only one staple 1020 is depicted in FIGS.
18A-18D. FIG. 18A illustrates the staple cartridge 1000 supported
by a staple cartridge support, or staple cartridge channel, 1030,
wherein the staple cartridge 1000 is illustrated in an uncompressed
condition. In such an uncompressed condition, the anvil 1040 may or
may not be in contact with the tissue T. In use, the anvil 1040 can
be moved from an open position into contact with the tissue T as
illustrated in FIG. 18B and position the tissue T against the
cartridge body 1010. Even though the anvil 1040 can position the
tissue T against a tissue-contacting surface 1019 of staple
cartridge body 1010, referring again to FIG. 18B, the staple
cartridge body 1010 may be subjected to little, if any, compressive
force or pressure at such point and the staples 1020 may remain in
an unformed, or unfired, condition. As illustrated in FIGS. 18A and
18B, the staple cartridge body 1010 can comprise one or more layers
and the staple legs 1021 of staples 1020 can extend upwardly
through these layers. In various embodiments, the cartridge body
1010 can comprise a first layer 1011, a second layer 1012, a third
layer 1013, wherein the second layer 1012 can be positioned
intermediate the first layer 1011 and the third layer 1013, and a
fourth layer 1014, wherein the third layer 1013 can be positioned
intermediate the second layer 1012 and the fourth layer 1014. In at
least one embodiment, the bases 1022 of the staples 1020 can be
positioned within cavities 1015 in the fourth layer 1014 and the
staple legs 1021 can extend upwardly from the bases 1022 and
through the fourth layer 1014, the third layer 1013, and the second
layer 1012, for example. In various embodiments, each deformable
leg 1021 can comprise a tip, such as sharp tip 1023, for example,
which can be positioned in the second layer 1012, for example, when
the staple cartridge 1000 is in an uncompressed condition. In at
least one such embodiment, the tips 1023 may not extend into and/or
through the first layer 1011, wherein, in at least one embodiment,
the tips 1023 may not protrude through the tissue-contacting
surface 1019 when the staple cartridge 1000 is in an uncompressed
condition. In certain other embodiments, the sharp tips 1023 may be
positioned in the third layer 1013, and/or any other suitable
layer, when the staple cartridge is in an uncompressed condition.
In various alternative embodiments, a cartridge body of a staple
cartridge may have any suitable number of layers such as less than
four layers or more than four layers, for example.
[0492] In various embodiments, as described in greater detail
below, the first layer 1011 can be comprised of a buttress material
and/or plastic material, such as polydioxanone (PDS) and/or
polyglycolic acid (PGA), for example, and the second layer 1012 can
be comprised of a bioabsorbable foam material and/or a compressible
hemostatic material, such as oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC),
for example. In various embodiments, one or more of the first layer
1011, the second layer 1012, the third layer 1013, and the fourth
layer 1014 may hold the staples 1020 within the staple cartridge
body 1010 and, in addition, maintain the staples 1020 in alignment
with one another. In various embodiments, the third layer 1013 can
be comprised of a buttress material, or a fairly incompressible or
inelastic material, which can be configured to hold the staple legs
1021 of the staples 1020 in position relative to one another.
Furthermore, the second layer 1012 and the fourth layer 1014, which
are positioned on opposite sides of the third layer 1013, can
stabilize, or reduce the movement of, the staples 1020 even though
the second layer 1012 and the fourth layer 1014 can be comprised of
a compressible foam or elastic material. In certain embodiments,
the staple tips 1023 of the staple legs 1021 can be at least
partially embedded in the first layer 1011. In at least one such
embodiment, the first layer 1011 and the third layer 1013 can be
configured to co-operatively and firmly hold the staple legs 1021
in position. In at least one embodiment, the first layer 1011 and
the third layer 1013 can each be comprised of a sheet of
bioabsorbable plastic, such as polyglycolic acid (PGA) which is
marketed under the trade name Vicryl, polylactic acid (PLA or
PLLA), polydioxanone (PDS), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA),
poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which is marketed under the trade name
Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL), and/or a composite of PGA, PLA,
PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for example, and the second layer 1012
and the fourth layer 1014 can each be comprised of at least one
hemostatic material or agent.
[0493] Although the first layer 1011 can be compressible, the
second layer 1012 can be substantially more compressible than the
first layer 1011. For example, the second layer 1012 can be about
twice as compressible, about three times as compressible, about
four times as compressible, about five times as compressible,
and/or about ten times as compressible, for example, as the first
layer 1011. Stated another way, the second layer 1012 may compress
about two times, about three times, about four times, about five
times, and/or about ten times as much as first layer 1011, fora
given force. In certain embodiments, the second layer 1012 can be
between about twice as compressible and about ten times as
compressible, for example, as the first layer 1011. In at least one
embodiment, the second layer 1012 can comprise a plurality of air
voids defined therein, wherein the amount and/or size of the air
voids in the second layer 1012 can be controlled in order to
provide a desired compressibility of the second layer 1012. Similar
to the above, although the third layer 1013 can be compressible,
the fourth layer 1014 can be substantially more compressible than
the third layer 1013. For example, the fourth layer 1014 can be
about twice as compressible, about three times as compressible,
about four times as compressible, about five times as compressible,
and/or about ten times as compressible, for example, as the third
layer 1013. Stated another way, the fourth layer 1014 may compress
about two times, about three times, about four times, about five
times, and/or about ten times as much as third layer 1013, for a
given force. In certain embodiments, the fourth layer 1014 can be
between about twice as compressible and about ten times as
compressible, for example, as the third layer 1013. In at least one
embodiment, the fourth layer 1014 can comprise a plurality of air
voids defined therein, wherein the amount and/or size of the air
voids in the fourth layer 1014 can be controlled in order to
provide a desired compressibility of the fourth layer 1014. In
various circumstances, the compressibility of a cartridge body, or
cartridge body layer, can be expressed in terms of a compression
rate, i.e., a distance in which a layer is compressed for a given
amount of force. For example, a layer having a high compression
rate will compress a larger distance for a given amount of
compressive force applied to the layer as compared to a layer
having a lower compression rate. This being said, the second layer
1012 can have a higher compression rate than the first layer 1011
and, similarly, the fourth layer 1014 can have a higher compression
rate than the third layer 1013. In various embodiments, the second
layer 1012 and the fourth layer 1014 can be comprised of the same
material and can comprise the same compression rate. In various
embodiments, the second layer 1012 and the fourth layer 1014 can be
comprised of materials having different compression rates.
Similarly, the first layer 1011 and the third layer 1013 can be
comprised of the same material and can comprise the same
compression rate. In certain embodiments, the first layer 1011 and
the third layer 1013 can be comprised of materials having different
compression rates.
[0494] As the anvil 1040 is moved toward its closed position, the
anvil 1040 can contact tissue T and apply a compressive force to
the tissue T and the staple cartridge 1000, as illustrated in FIG.
18C. In such circumstances, the anvil 1040 can push the top
surface, or tissue-contacting surface 1019, of the cartridge body
1010 downwardly toward the staple cartridge support 1030. In
various embodiments, the staple cartridge support 1030 can comprise
a cartridge support surface 1031 which can be configured to support
the staple cartridge 1000 as the staple cartridge 1000 is
compressed between the cartridge support surface 1031 and the
tissue-contacting surface 1041 of anvil 1040. Owing to the pressure
applied by the anvil 1040, the cartridge body 1010 can be
compressed and the anvil 1040 can come into contact with the
staples 1020. More particularly, in various embodiments, the
compression of the cartridge body 1010 and the downward movement of
the tissue-contacting surface 1019 can cause the tips 1023 of the
staple legs 1021 to pierce the first layer 1011 of cartridge body
1010, pierce the tissue T, and enter into forming pockets 1042 in
the anvil 1040. As the cartridge body 1010 is further compressed by
the anvil 1040, the tips 1023 can contact the walls defining the
forming pockets 1042 and, as a result, the legs 1021 can be
deformed or curled inwardly, for example, as illustrated in FIG.
18C. As the staple legs 1021 are being deformed, as also
illustrated in FIG. 18C, the bases 1022 of the staples 1020 can be
in contact with or supported by the staple cartridge support 1030.
In various embodiments, as described in greater detail below, the
staple cartridge support 1030 can comprise a plurality of support
features, such as staple support grooves, slots, or troughs 1032,
for example, which can be configured to support the staples 1020,
or at least the bases 1022 of the staples 1020, as the staples 1020
are being deformed. As also illustrated in FIG. 18C, the cavities
1015 in the fourth layer 1014 can collapse as a result of the
compressive force applied to the staple cartridge body 1010. In
addition to the cavities 1015, the staple cartridge body 1010 can
further comprise one or more voids, such as voids 1016, for
example, which may or may not comprise a portion of a staple
positioned therein, that can be configured to allow the cartridge
body 1010 to collapse. In various embodiments, the cavities 1015
and/or the voids 1016 can be configured to collapse such that the
walls defining the cavities and/or walls deflect downwardly and
contact the cartridge support surface 1031 and/or contact a layer
of the cartridge body 1010 positioned underneath the cavities
and/or voids.
[0495] Upon comparing FIG. 18B and FIG. 18C, it is evident that the
second layer 1012 and the fourth layer 1014 have been substantially
compressed by the compressive pressure applied by the anvil 1040.
It may also be noted that the first layer 1011 and the third layer
1013 have been compressed as well. As the anvil 1040 is moved into
its closed position, the anvil 1040 may continue to further
compress the cartridge body 1010 by pushing the tissue-contacting
surface 1019 downwardly toward the staple cartridge support 1030.
As the cartridge body 1010 is further compressed, the anvil 1040
can deform the staples 1020 into their completely-formed shape as
illustrated in FIG. 18D. Referring to FIG. 18D, the legs 1021 of
each staple 1020 can be deformed downwardly toward the base 1022 of
each staple 1020 in order to capture at least a portion of the
tissue T, the first layer 1011, the second layer 1012, the third
layer 1013, and the fourth layer 1014 between the deformable legs
1021 and the base 1022. Upon comparing FIGS. 18C and 18D, it is
further evident that the second layer 1012 and the fourth layer
1014 have been further substantially compressed by the compressive
pressure applied by the anvil 1040. It may also be noted upon
comparing FIGS. 18C and 18D that the first layer 1011 and the third
layer 1013 have been further compressed as well. After the staples
1020 have been completely, or at least sufficiently, formed, the
anvil 1040 can be lifted away from the tissue T and the staple
cartridge support 1030 can be moved away, and/or detached from, the
staple cartridge 1000. As depicted in FIG. 18D, and as a result of
the above, the cartridge body 1010 can be implanted with the
staples 1020. In various circumstances, the implanted cartridge
body 1010 can support the tissue along the staple line. In some
circumstances, a hemostatic agent, and/or any other suitable
therapeutic medicament, contained within the implanted cartridge
body 1010 can treat the tissue over time. A hemostatic agent, as
mentioned above, can reduce the bleeding of the stapled and/or
incised tissue while a bonding agent or tissue adhesive can provide
strength to the tissue over time. The implanted cartridge body 1010
can be comprised of materials such as ORC (oxidized regenerated
cellulous), protein matrix, polyglycolic acid (PGA) which is
marketed under the trade name Vicryl, polylactic acid (PLA or
PLLA), polydioxanone (PDS), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA),
poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which is marketed under the trade name
Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL), and/or a composite of PGA, PLA,
PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for example. In certain circumstances,
the cartridge body 1010 can comprise an antibiotic and/or
anti-microbial material, such as colloidal silver and/or triclosan,
for example, which can reduce the possibility of infection in the
surgical site.
[0496] In various embodiments, the layers of the cartridge body
1010 can be connected to one another. In at least one embodiment,
the second layer 1012 can be adhered to the first layer 1011, the
third layer 1013 can be adhered to the second layer 1012, and the
fourth layer 1014 can be adhered to the third layer 1013 utilizing
at least one adhesive, such as fibrin and/or protein hydrogel, for
example. In certain embodiments, although not illustrated, the
layers of the cartridge body 1010 can be connected together by
interlocking mechanical features. In at least one such embodiment,
the first layer 1011 and the second layer 1012 can each comprise
corresponding interlocking features, such as a tongue and groove
arrangement and/or a dovetail joint arrangement, for example.
Similarly, the second layer 1012 and the third layer 1013 can each
comprise corresponding interlocking features while the third layer
1013 and the fourth layer 1014 can each comprise corresponding
interlocking features. In certain embodiments, although not
illustrated, the staple cartridge 1000 can comprise one or more
rivets, for example, which can extend through one or more layers of
the cartridge body 1010. In at least one such embodiment, each
rivet can comprise a first end, or head, positioned adjacent to the
first layer 1011 and a second head positioned adjacent to the
fourth layer 1014 which can be either assembled to or formed by a
second end of the rivet. Owing to the compressible nature of the
cartridge body 1010, in at least one embodiment, the rivets can
compress the cartridge body 1010 such that the heads of the rivets
can be recessed relative to the tissue-contacting surface 1019
and/or the bottom surface 1018 of the cartridge body 1010, for
example. In at least one such embodiment, the rivets can be
comprised of a bioabsorbable material, such as polyglycolic acid
(PGA) which is marketed under the trade name Vicryl, polylactic
acid (PLA or PLLA), polydioxanone (PDS), polyhydroxyalkanoate
(PHA), poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which is marketed under the trade
name Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL), and/or a composite of PGA,
PLA, PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for example. In certain
embodiments, the layers of the cartridge body 1010 may not be
connected to one another other than by the staples 1020 contained
therein. In at least one such embodiment, the frictional engagement
between the staple legs 1021 and the cartridge body 1010, for
example, can hold the layers of the cartridge body 1010 together
and, once the staples have been formed, the layers can be captured
within the staples 1020. In certain embodiments, at least a portion
of the staple legs 1021 can comprise a roughened surface or rough
coating which can increase the friction forces between the staples
1020 and the cartridge body 1010.
[0497] As described above, a surgical instrument can comprise a
first jaw including the staple cartridge support 1030 and a second
jaw including the anvil 1040. In various embodiments, as described
in greater detail further below, the staple cartridge 1000 can
comprise one or more retention features which can be configured to
engage the staple cartridge support 1030 and, as a result,
releasably retain the staple cartridge 1000 to the staple cartridge
support 1030. In certain embodiments, the staple cartridge 1000 can
be adhered to the staple cartridge support 1030 by at least one
adhesive, such as fibrin and/or protein hydrogel, for example. In
use, in at least one circumstance, especially in laparoscopic
and/or endoscopic surgery, the second jaw can be moved into a
closed position opposite the first jaw, for example, such that the
first and second jaws can be inserted through a trocar into a
surgical site. In at least one such embodiment, the trocar can
define an approximately 5 mm aperture, or cannula, through which
the first and second jaws can be inserted. In certain embodiments,
the second jaw can be moved into a partially-closed position
intermediate the open position and the closed position which can
allow the first and second jaws to be inserted through the trocar
without deforming the staples 1020 contained in the staple
cartridge body 1010. In at least one such embodiment, the anvil
1040 may not apply a compressive force to the staple cartridge body
1010 when the second jaw is in its partially-closed intermediate
position while, in certain other embodiments, the anvil 1040 can
compress the staple cartridge body 1010 when the second jaw is in
its partially-closed intermediate position. Even though the anvil
1040 can compress the staple cartridge body 1010 when it is in such
an intermediate position, the anvil 1040 may not sufficiently
compress the staple cartridge body 1010 such that the anvil 1040
comes into contact with the staples 1020 and/or such that the
staples 1020 are deformed by the anvil 1040. Once the first and
second jaws have been inserted through the trocar into the surgical
site, the second jaw can be opened once again and the anvil 1040
and the staple cartridge 1000 can be positioned relative to the
targeted tissue as described above.
[0498] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 19A-19D, an
end effector of a surgical stapler can comprise an implantable
staple cartridge 1100 positioned intermediate an anvil 1140 and a
staple cartridge support 1130. Similar to the above, the anvil 1140
can comprise a tissue-contacting surface 1141, the staple cartridge
1100 can comprise a tissue-contacting surface 1119, and the staple
cartridge support 1130 can comprise a support surface 1131 which
can be configured to support the staple cartridge 1100. Referring
to FIG. 19A, the anvil 1140 can be utilized to position the tissue
T against the tissue contacting surface 1119 of staple cartridge
1100 without deforming the staple cartridge 1100 and, when the
anvil 1140 is in such a position, the tissue-contacting surface
1141 can be positioned a distance 1101a away from the staple
cartridge support surface 1131 and the tissue-contacting surface
1119 can be positioned a distance 1102a away from the staple
cartridge support surface 1131. Thereafter, as the anvil 1140 is
moved toward the staple cartridge support 1130, referring now to
FIG. 19B, the anvil 1140 can push the top surface, or
tissue-contacting surface 1119, of staple cartridge 1100 downwardly
and compress the first layer 1111 and the second layer 1112 of
cartridge body 1110. As the layers 1111 and 1112 are compressed,
referring again to FIG. 19B, the second layer 1112 can be crushed
and the legs 1121 of staples 1120 can pierce the first layer 1111
and enter into the tissue T. In at least one such embodiment, the
staples 1120 can be at least partially positioned within staple
cavities, or voids, 1115 in the second layer 1112 and, when the
second layer 1112 is compressed, the staple cavities 1115 can
collapse and, as a result, allow the second layer 1112 to collapse
around the staples 1120. In various embodiments, the second layer
1112 can comprise cover portions 1116 which can extend over the
staple cavities 1115 and enclose, or at least partially enclose,
the staple cavities 1115. FIG. 19B illustrates the cover portions
1116 being crushed downwardly into the staple cavities 1115. In
certain embodiments, the second layer 1112 can comprise one or more
weakened portions which can facilitate the collapse of the second
layer 1112. In various embodiments, such weakened portions can
comprise score marks, perforations, and/or thin cross-sections, for
example, which can facilitate a controlled collapse of the
cartridge body 1110. In at least one embodiment, the first layer
1111 can comprise one or more weakened portions which can
facilitate the penetration of the staple legs 1121 through the
first layer 1111. In various embodiments, such weakened portions
can comprise score marks, perforations, and/or thin cross-sections,
for example, which can be aligned, or at least substantially
aligned, with the staple legs 1121.
[0499] When the anvil 1140 is in a partially closed, unfired
position, referring again to FIG. 19A, the anvil 1140 can be
positioned a distance 1101a away from the cartridge support surface
1131 such that a gap is defined therebetween. This gap can be
filled by the staple cartridge 1100, having a staple cartridge
height 1102a, and the tissue T. As the anvil 1140 is moved
downwardly to compress the staple cartridge 1100, referring again
to FIG. 19B, the distance between the tissue contacting surface
1141 and the cartridge support surface 1131 can be defined by a
distance 1101b which is shorter than the distance 1101a. In various
circumstances, the gap between the tissue-contacting surface 1141
of anvil 1140 and the cartridge support surface 1131, defined by
distance 1101b, may be larger than the original, undeformed staple
cartridge height 1102a. As the anvil 1140 is moved closer to the
cartridge support surface 1131, referring now to FIG. 19C, the
second layer 1112 can continue to collapse and the distance between
the staple legs 1121 and the forming pockets 1142 can decrease.
Similarly, the distance between the tissue-contacting surface 1141
and the cartridge support surface 1131 can decrease to a distance
1101c which, in various embodiments, may be greater than, equal to,
or less than the original, undeformed cartridge height 1102a.
Referring now to FIG. 19D, the anvil 1140 can be moved into a
final, fired position in which the staples 1120 have been fully
formed, or at least formed to a desired height. In such a position,
the tissue-contacting surface 1141 of anvil 1140 can be a distance
1101d away from the cartridge support surface 1131, wherein the
distance 1101d can be shorter than the original, undeformed
cartridge height 1102a. As also illustrated in FIG. 19D, the staple
cavities 1115 may be fully, or at least substantially, collapsed
and the staples 1120 may be completely, or at least substantially,
surrounded by the collapsed second layer 1112. In various
circumstances, the anvil 1140 can be thereafter moved away from the
staple cartridge 1100. Once the anvil 1140 has been disengaged from
the staple cartridge 1100, the cartridge body 1110 can at least
partially re-expand in various locations, i.e., locations
intermediate adjacent staples 1120, for example. In at least one
embodiment, the crushed cartridge body 1110 may not resiliently
re-expand. In various embodiments, the formed staples 1120 and, in
addition, the cartridge body 1110 positioned intermediate adjacent
staples 1120 may apply pressure, or compressive forces, to the
tissue T which may provide various therapeutic benefits.
[0500] As discussed above, referring again to the embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 19A, each staple 1120 can comprise staple legs
1121 extending therefrom. Although staples 1120 are depicted as
comprising two staple legs 1121, various staples can be utilized
which can comprise one staple leg or, alternatively, more than two
staple legs, such as three staple legs or four staple legs, for
example. As illustrated in FIG. 19A, each staple leg 1121 can be
embedded in the second layer 1112 of the cartridge body 1110 such
that the staples 1120 are secured within the second layer 1112. In
various embodiments, the staples 1120 can be inserted into the
staple cavities 1115 in cartridge body 1110 such that the tips 1123
of the staple legs 1121 enter into the cavities 1115 before the
bases 1122. After the tips 1123 have been inserted into the
cavities 1115, in various embodiments, the tips 1123 can be pressed
into the cover portions 1116 and incise the second layer 1112. In
various embodiments, the staples 1120 can be seated to a sufficient
depth within the second layer 1112 such that the staples 1120 do
not move, or at least substantially move, relative to the second
layer 1112. In certain embodiments, the staples 1120 can be seated
to a sufficient depth within the second layer 1112 such that the
bases 1122 are positioned or embedded within the staple cavities
1115. In various other embodiments, the bases 1122 may not be
positioned or embedded within the second layer 1112. In certain
embodiments, referring again to FIG. 19A, the bases 1122 may extend
below the bottom surface 1118 of the cartridge body 1110. In
certain embodiments, the bases 1122 can rest on, or can be directly
positioned against, the cartridge support surface 1130. In various
embodiments, the cartridge support surface 1130 can comprise
support features extending therefrom and/or defined therein
wherein, in at least one such embodiment, the bases 1122 of the
staples 1120 may be positioned within and supported by one or more
support grooves, slots, or troughs, 1132, for example, in the
staple cartridge support 1130, as described in greater detail
further below.
[0501] Further to the above, referring now to FIG. 20, the bases
1122 of the staples 1120 can be positioned directly against the
support surface 1131 of staple cartridge support 1130. In various
embodiments, including embodiments where the staple bases 1122
comprise circular or arcuate bottom surfaces 1124, for example, the
staple bases 1122 may move or slide along the staple cartridge
support surface 1131. Such sliding can occur when the anvil 1140 is
pressed against the tips 1123 of the staple legs 1121 during the
staple forming process. In certain embodiments, as described above
and referring now to FIG. 21, the staple cartridge support 1130 can
comprise one or more support slots 1132 therein which can be
configured to eliminate, or at least reduce, the relative movement
between the staple bases 1122 and the cartridge support surface
1131. In at least one such embodiment, each support slot 1132 can
be defined by a surface contour which matches, or at least
substantially matches, the contour of the bottom surface of the
staple positioned therein. For example, the bottom surface 1124 of
the base 1122 depicted in FIG. 21 can comprise a circular, or at
least substantially circular, surface and the support slot 1132 can
also comprise a circular, or at least substantially circular,
surface. In at least one such embodiment, the surface defining the
slot 1132 can be defined by a radius of curvature which is greater
than or equal to a radius of curvature which defines bottom surface
1124. Although the slots 1132 may assist in preventing or reducing
relative sliding movement between the staples 1120 and the staple
cartridge support 1130, the slots 1132 may also be configured to
prevent or reduce relative rotational movement between the staples
1120 and the staple cartridge support 1130. More particularly, in
at least one embodiment, the slots 1132 can be configured to
closely receive the bases 1122 in order to prevent or reduce the
rotation of the staples 1120 about axes 1129, for example, such
that the staples 1120 do not rotate or twist when they are being
deformed.
[0502] In various embodiments, further to the above, each staple
1120 can be formed from a round, or an at least substantially
round, wire. In certain embodiments, the legs and the base of each
staple can be formed from a wire having a non-circular
cross-section, such as a rectangular cross-section, for example. In
at least one such embodiment, the staple cartridge support 1130 can
comprise corresponding non-circular slots, such as rectangular
slots, for example, configured to receive the bases of such
staples. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 22, each
staple 1120 can comprise a crown, such as a crown 1125, for
example, overmolded onto a base 1122 wherein each crown 1125 can be
positioned within a support slot in the staple cartridge support
1130. In at least one such embodiment, each crown 1125 can comprise
a square and/or rectangular cross-section, for example, which can
be configured to be received within square and/or rectangular slots
1134, for example, in the staple cartridge support 1130. In various
embodiments, the crowns 1125 can be comprised of a bioabsorbable
plastic, such as polyglycolic acid (PGA) which is marketed under
the trade name Vicryl, polylactic acid (PLA or PLLA), polydioxanone
(PDS), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which
is marketed under the trade name Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL),
and/or a composite of PGA, PLA, PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for
example, and can be formed around the bases 1122 of the staples
1120 by an injection molding process, for example. Various crowns
and methods for forming various crowns are disclosed in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/541,123, entitled SURGICAL STAPLES HAVING
COMPRESSIBLE OR CRUSHABLE MEMBERS FOR SECURING TISSUE THEREIN AND
STAPLING INSTRUMENTS FOR DEPLOYING THE SAME, filed on Sep. 29,
2006, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated be reference
herein. Referring again to FIG. 22, the slots 1134 can further
comprise lead-ins, or bevels, 1135 which can be configured to
facilitate the insertion of the crowns 1125 into the slots 1134. In
various embodiments, the bases and/or crowns of the staples 1120
may be positioned within the slots 1134 when the staple cartridge
1100 is assembled to the staple cartridge support 1130. In certain
embodiments, the crowns 1125 of the staples 1120 may be aligned
with the slots 1134 when the staple cartridge 1100 is assembled to
the staple cartridge support 1130. In at least one such embodiment,
the crowns 1125 may not enter into the slots 1134 until a
compressive force is applied to the staple legs 1121 and the bases
and/or crowns of the staples 1120 are pushed downwardly into the
slots 1134.
[0503] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 23 and 24, a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 1200, for example, can
comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge body 1210 comprising
an outer layer 1211 and an inner layer 1212. Similar to the above,
the staple cartridge 1200 can comprise a plurality of staples 1220
positioned within the cartridge body 1210. In various embodiments,
each staple 1220 can comprise a base 1222 and one or more staple
legs 1221 extending therefrom. In at least one such embodiment, the
staple legs 1221 can be inserted into the inner layer 1212 and
seated to a depth in which the bases 1222 of the staples 1220 abut
and/or are positioned adjacent to the bottom surface 1218 of the
inner layer 1212, for example. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS.
23 and 24, the inner layer 1212 does not comprise staple cavities
configured to receive a portion of the staples 1220 while, in other
embodiments, the inner layer 1212 can comprise such staple
cavities. In various embodiments, further to the above, the inner
layer 1212 can be comprised of a compressible material, such as
bioabsorbable foam and/or oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC), for
example, which can be configured to allow the cartridge body 1210
to collapse when a compressive load is applied thereto. In various
embodiments, the inner layer 1212 can be comprised of a lyophilized
foam comprising polylactic acid (PLA) and/or polyglycolic acid
(PGA), for example. The ORC may be commercially available under the
trade name Surgicel and can comprise a loose woven fabric (like a
surgical sponge), loose fibers (like a cotton ball), and/or a foam.
In at least one embodiment, the inner layer 1212 can be comprised
of a material including medicaments, such as freeze-dried thrombin
and/or fibrin, for example, contained therein and/or coated thereon
which can be water-activated and/or activated by fluids within the
patient's body, for example. In at least one such embodiment, the
freeze-dried thrombin and/or fibrin can be held on a Vicryl (PGA)
matrix, for example. In certain circumstances, however, the
activatable medicaments can be unintentionally activated when the
staple cartridge 1200 is inserted into a surgical site within the
patient, for example. In various embodiments, referring again to
FIGS. 23 and 24, the outer layer 1211 can be comprised of a water
impermeable, or at least substantially water impermeable, material
such that liquids do not come into contact with, or at least
substantially contact, the inner layer 1212 until after the
cartridge body 1210 has been compressed and the staple legs have
penetrated the outer layer 1211 and/or after the outer layer 1211
has been incised in some fashion. In various embodiments, the outer
layer 1211 can be comprised of a buttress material and/or plastic
material, such as polydioxanone (PDS) and/or polyglycolic acid
(PGA), for example. In certain embodiments, the outer layer 1211
can comprise a wrap which surrounds the inner layer 1212 and the
staples 1220. More particularly, in at least one embodiment, the
staples 1220 can be inserted into the inner layer 1212 and the
outer layer 1211 can be wrapped around the sub-assembly comprising
the inner layer 1212 and the staples 1220 and then sealed.
[0504] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 25 and 26, a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 1300, for example, can
comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge body 1310 including
an outer layer 1311 and an inner layer 1312. Similar to the above,
the staple cartridge 1300 can further comprise staples 1320
positioned within the cartridge body 1310 wherein each staple 1320
can comprise a base 1322 and one or more legs 1321 extending
therefrom. Similar to staple cartridge 1200, the bases 1322 of
staples 1320 can extend below the bottom surface 1318 of the inner
layer 1312 and the outer layer 1311 can surround the bases 1322. In
at least one such embodiment, the outer layer 1311 can be
sufficiently flexible so as to envelop each staple base 1322 such
that the outer layer 1311 conforms to the contour of the bases
1322. In at least one alternative embodiment, referring again to
FIG. 24, the outer layer 1211 can be sufficiently rigid such that
it extends around the bases 1222 without conforming to each base
1222. In any event, in various embodiments, the outer layer 1311
can be positioned intermediate the bases 1322 of staples 1320 and a
staple cartridge support surface, such as support surfaces 1031 or
1131, for example, supporting the staple cartridge 1300. In at
least one such embodiment, the outer layer 1311 can be positioned
intermediate the bases 1322 and support slots, such as slots 1032
or 1132, for example, defined in the staple cartridge support
surface. In at least one such embodiment, further to the above, the
outer layer 1311 can be configured to limit the movement of the
bases 1322 and/or increase the coefficient of friction between the
bases 1322 and the staple cartridge support surface and/or support
slots in order to reduce relative movement therebetween. In various
alternative embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 27 and 28, the
outer layer of a staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 1400,
for example, may not entirely surround the staples positioned
therein. In at least one such embodiment, an outer layer 1411 of a
compressible, implantable cartridge body 1410 may be assembled to
the inner layer 1412 before the staple legs 1421 of staples 1420
are inserted into the cartridge body 1410. As a result of the
above, the bases 1422 of staples 1420 may extend outside of the
outer layer 1411 and, in at least one such embodiment, the bases
1422 may be positioned directly into the support slots 1032 or 1132
within the staple cartridge support surfaces 1031 or 1131, for
example. In various embodiments, the staple legs 1421 may incise
the outer layer 1411 when they are inserted therethrough. In
various circumstances, the holes created by the staple legs 1421
may closely surround the staple legs 1421 such that very little, if
any, fluid can leak between the staple legs 1421 and the outer
layer 1411 which can reduce the possibility of, or prevent, the
medicament contained within the staple cartridge body 1410 from
being activated and/or leaking out of the cartridge body 1410
prematurely.
[0505] As discussed above, referring again to FIGS. 23 and 24, the
legs 1221 of the staples 1220 can be embedded within the cartridge
body 1210 and the bases 1222 of staples 1220 may extend outwardly
from the bottom surface 1218 of the inner layer 1212. In various
embodiments, further to the above, the inner layer 1212 may not
comprise staple cavities configured to receive the staples 1220. In
various other embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 29 and 30, a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 1500, for example, may
comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge body 1510 comprising
staple cavities 1515 which can be configured to receive at least a
portion of the staples 1520 therein. In at least one such
embodiment, a top portion of the staple legs 1521 of the staples
1520 may be embedded in the inner layer 1512 while a bottom portion
of the staple legs 1521, and the bases 1522, may be positioned
within the staple cavities 1515. In certain embodiments, the bases
1522 may be entirely positioned in the staple cavities 1515 while,
in some embodiments, the bases 1522 may at least partially extend
below the bottom surface 1518 of the inner layer 1512. Similar to
the above, the outer layer 1511 may enclose the inner layer 1512
and the staples 1520 positioned therein. In certain other
embodiments, referring now to FIG. 31, a staple cartridge 1600 may
comprise staples 1620 positioned within staple cavities 1615 in a
compressible, implantable cartridge body 1610 wherein at least a
portion of the staples 1620 are not enclosed by the outer layer
1611. In at least one such embodiment, each staple 1620 can
comprise staple legs 1621 which are at least partially embedded in
the inner layer 1612 and, in addition, bases 1622 which extend
outwardly around the outer layer 1611.
[0506] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 32 and 33, a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 1700, for example, can
comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge body 1710 and a
plurality of staples 1720 at least partially positioned within the
cartridge body 1710. The cartridge body 1710 can comprise an outer
layer 1711, an inner layer 1712, and, in addition, an alignment
matrix 1740 which can be configured to align and/or retain the
staples 1720 in position within the cartridge body 1710. In at
least one embodiment, the inner layer 1712 can comprise a recess
1741 which can be configured to receive the alignment matrix 1740
therein. In various embodiments, the alignment matrix 1140 can be
press-fit within the recess 1741 and/or otherwise suitably secured
to the inner layer 1712 utilizing at least one adhesive, such as
fibrin and/or protein hydrogel, for example. In at least one
embodiment, the recess 1741 can be configured such that the bottom
surface 1742 of alignment matrix 1740 is aligned, or at least
substantially aligned, with the bottom surface 1718 of the inner
layer 1712. In certain embodiments, the bottom surface 1742 of the
alignment matrix can be recessed with respect to and/or extend from
the bottom surface 1718 of the second layer 1712. In various
embodiments, each staple 1720 can comprise a base 1722 and one or
more legs 1721 extending from the base 1722, wherein at least a
portion of the staple legs 1721 can extend through the alignment
matrix 1740. The alignment matrix 1740 can further comprise a
plurality of apertures and/or slots, for example, extending
therethrough which can be configured to receive the staple legs
1721 therein. In at least one such embodiment, each aperture can be
configured to closely receive a staple leg 1721 such that there is
little, if any, relative movement between the staple leg 1721 and
the sidewalls of the aperture. In certain embodiments, the
alignment matrix apertures may not extend entirely through the
alignment matrix 1740 and the staple legs 1721 may be required to
incise the alignment matrix 1740 as the staple legs 1721 are pushed
therethrough.
[0507] In various embodiments, the alignment matrix 1740 can be
comprised of a molded plastic body which, in at least one
embodiment, can be stiffer or less compressible than the inner
layer 1712 and/or the outer layer 1711. In at least one such
embodiment, the alignment matrix 1740 can be comprised of a plastic
material and/or any other suitable material, such as polydioxanone
(PDS) and/or polyglycolic acid (PGA), for example. In certain
embodiments, the alignment matrix 1740 can be assembled to the
inner layer 1712 and the staple legs 1721 can thereafter be
inserted through the alignment matrix 1740 and embedded into the
inner layer 1712. In various embodiments, the bottom surface 1742
of the alignment matrix 1740 can comprise one or more grooves,
slots, or troughs, for example, which can be configured to at least
partially receive the bases 1722 of the staples 1720. Similar to
the above, the outer layer 1711 can then be placed around the
subassembly comprising the inner layer 1712, the alignment matrix
1740, and the staples 1720. Alternatively, the outer layer 1711 can
be placed around a subassembly comprising the inner layer 1712 and
the alignment matrix 1740 wherein the staples 1720 can be
thereafter inserted through the outer layer 1711, the alignment
matrix 1740, and the inner layer 1712. In any event, as a result of
the above, the inner layer 1712, the alignment matrix 1740, and/or
the outer layer 1711 can be configured to retain the staples 1720
in position until and/or after they are deformed by an anvil as
described above. In at least one such embodiment, the alignment
matrix 1740 can serve to hold the staples 1720 in place before the
staple cartridge 1700 is implanted within a patient and, in
addition, secure the tissue along the staple line after the staple
cartridge 1700 has been implanted. In at least one embodiment, the
staples 1720 may be secured within the alignment matrix 1740
without being embedded in the inner layer 1712 and/or the outer
layer 1711, for example.
[0508] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 34-40, a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 1800, for example, can
be assembled by compressing an inner layer 1812, inserting staples,
such as staples 1820, for example, into the inner layer 1812, and
wrapping the inner layer 1812 with an outer layer 1811. Referring
primarily to FIG. 34, a compressible inner layer 1812 is
illustrated as comprising a plurality of staple cavities 1815
defined therein, although other embodiments are envisioned in which
the inner layer 1812 does not comprise staple cavities, as
described above. Referring now to FIG. 35, the compressible inner
layer 1812 can be positioned intermediate a transfer plate 1850 and
a support plate 1860 and compressed between the compression
surfaces 1852 and 1862 thereof, respectively. As illustrated in
FIG. 35, the top and bottom surfaces of the inner layer 1812 can be
compressed toward one another and, in response thereto, the inner
layer 1812 can bulge outwardly in the lateral directions. In
certain embodiments, the inner layer 1812 can be compressed to a
height which is approximately one-third of its original height, for
example, and can have a height or thickness between approximately
0.06'' and approximately 0.08'' in its compressed state, for
example. As also illustrated in FIG. 35, the transfer plate 1850
can further comprise a plurality of staples, such as staples 1820,
for example, positioned within a plurality of staple wells 1853. In
addition, the transfer plate 1850 can further comprise a plurality
of drivers 1851 which can be configured to push the staples 1820
upwardly and out of the staple wells 1853. Referring now to FIG.
36, the drivers 1851 can be utilized to push the staple legs 1821
of the staples 1820 into and through the compressed inner layer
1812. In various embodiments, the drivers 1851 can be configured
such that the top surfaces thereof are positioned flush, or at
least nearly flush, with the compression surface 1852 of the
transfer plate 1850 when the staples 1820 have been fully deployed
from the staple wells 1853 of transfer plate 1850. In certain
embodiments, as also illustrated in FIG. 36, the support plate 1860
can comprise a plurality of receiving apertures 1861 which can be
configured to receive the staple legs 1821, or at least the tips of
the staple legs 1821, after they are pushed through the inner layer
1812. The receiving apertures 1861, or the like, may be
necessitated in embodiments where the inner layer 1812 has been
compressed to a height which is shorter than the height of the
staples 1820 and, thus, when the staples 1820 have been fully
ejected from the staple wells 1853, the staple legs 1821 may
protrude from the top surface of the compressed inner layer 1812.
In certain other embodiments, the inner layer 1812 may be
compressed to a height which is taller than the height of the
staples 1820 and, as a result, the receiving apertures 1861 in
support plate 1860 may be unnecessary.
[0509] After the staples 1820 have been inserted into the inner
layer 1812, referring now to FIG. 37, the support plate 1860 can be
moved away from the transfer plate 1850 in order to allow the inner
layer 1812 to decompress. In such circumstances, the inner layer
1812 can resiliently re-expand to its original, or at least
near-original, uncompressed height. As the inner layer 1812
re-expands, the height of the inner layer 1812 can increase such
that it exceeds the height of the staples 1820 and such that the
staple legs 1821 of the staples 1820 no longer protrude from the
top surface of the inner layer 1812. In various circumstances, the
receiving apertures 1861 can be configured to hold the staple legs
1821 in position at least until the support plate 1860 has been
sufficiently moved away such that the legs 1821 are no longer
positioned within the receiving apertures 1861. In such
circumstances, the receiving apertures 1861 can assist in
maintaining the relative alignment of the staples 1820 within the
inner layer 1812 as it re-expands. In various circumstances, the
inner layer 1812 and the staples 1820 positioned therein can
comprise a subassembly 1801 which, referring now to FIG. 38, can be
inserted into an outer layer 1811, for example. In at least one
such embodiment, the outer layer 1811 can comprise a cavity 1802
defined therein which can be configured to receive the subassembly
1801 therein. In various circumstances, a tool, such as pliers
1855, for example, can be utilized to pull the outer layer 1811
onto the subassembly 1801. Once the subassembly 1801 has been
sufficiently positioned within the outer layer 1811, referring now
to FIG. 39, the outer layer 1811 can be sealed. In various
embodiments, the outer layer 1811 can be sealed utilizing the
application of heat energy to a portion thereof. More particularly,
in at least one embodiment, the outer layer 1811 can be comprised
of a plastic material wherein the open end of the outer layer 1811
can be heat-staked by one or more heated elements, or irons, 1856
in order to bond and/or seal the perimeter of the open end of the
outer layer 1811 together. In at least one such embodiment,
referring now to FIG. 40, an excess portion 1857 of the outer layer
1811 can be removed and the staple cartridge 1800 can then be used
as described herein.
[0510] As described above, a staple cartridge can be positioned
within and/or secured to a staple cartridge attachment portion. In
various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 41 and 42, a staple
cartridge attachment portion can comprise a staple cartridge
channel, such as staple cartridge channel 1930, for example, which
can be configured to receive at least a portion of a staple
cartridge, such as staple cartridge 1900, for example, therein. In
at least one embodiment, the staple cartridge channel 1930 can
comprise a bottom support surface 1931, a first lateral support
wall 1940, and a second lateral support wall 1941. In use, the
staple cartridge 1900 can be positioned within the staple cartridge
channel 1930 such that the staple cartridge 1900 is positioned
against and/or adjacent to the bottom support surface 1931 and
positioned intermediate the first lateral support wall 1940 and the
second lateral support wall 1941. In certain embodiments, the first
lateral support wall 1940 and the second lateral support wall 1941
can define a lateral gap therebetween. In at least one such
embodiment, the staple cartridge 1900 can comprise a lateral width
1903 which is the same as and/or wider than the lateral gap defined
between the support walls 1940 and 1941 such that a compressible,
implantable cartridge body 1910 of the staple cartridge 1900 can
fit securely between the walls 1940 and 1941. In certain other
embodiments, the lateral width 1903 of the staple cartridge 1900
can be shorter than the gap defined between the first and second
side walls 1940 and 1941. In various embodiments, at least a
portion of the walls 1940 and 1941 and the bottom support surface
1931 can be defined by a stamped metal channel while, in at least
one embodiment, at least a portion of the lateral support wall 1940
and/or lateral support wall 1941 can be comprised of a flexible
material, such as an elastomeric material, for example. Referring
primarily to FIG. 41, the first side wall 1940 and the second side
wall 1941 of the staple cartridge channel 1930 can each be
comprised of a rigid portion 1933 extending upwardly from the
bottom support surface 1931 and a flexible portion 1934 extending
upwardly from the rigid portions 1933.
[0511] In various embodiments, further to the above, the cartridge
body 1910 of staple cartridge 1900 can be comprised of one or more
compressible layers, such as first layer 1911 and second layer
1912, for example. When the cartridge body 1910 is compressed
against the bottom support surface 1931 by an anvil, as described
above, the side portions of the cartridge body 1910 can expand
laterally. In embodiments where the staple cartridge 1930 is
comprised of rigid side walls, the lateral expansion of the
cartridge body 1910 can be prevented, or at least limited, by the
rigid side walls and, as a result, a significant amount of internal
pressure, or stress, can be developed within the cartridge body
1910. In embodiments where at least a portion of the staple
cartridge 1930 is comprised of flexible side walls, the flexible
side walls can be configured to flex laterally and permit the side
portions of the cartridge body 1910 to expand laterally, thereby
reducing the internal pressure, or stress, generated within the
cartridge body 1910. In embodiments where the cartridge channel
does not comprise lateral side walls, or comprises lateral
sidewalls which are relatively shorter than the staple cartridge,
the side portions of the staple cartridge may expand laterally
uninhibited, or at least substantially uninhibited. In any event,
referring now to FIG. 42, a staple cartridge channel 2030 can
comprise lateral sidewalls 2040 and 2041 which can be entirely
comprised of a flexible material, such as an elastomeric material,
for example. The staple cartridge channel 2030 can further comprise
lateral slots 2033 extending along the sides of the bottom support
surface 2031 of the staple cartridge channel 2030 which can be
configured to receive and secure at least a portion of the lateral
sidewalls 2040 and 2041 therein. In certain embodiments, the
lateral side walls 2040 and 2041 can be secured in the slots 2033
via a snap-fit and/or press-fit arrangement while, in at least some
embodiments, the lateral side walls 2040 and 2041 can be secured in
the slots 2033 by one or more adhesives. In at least one
embodiment, the sidewalls 2040 and 2041 may be detachable from the
bottom support surface 2031 during use. In any event, a
compressible, implantable cartridge body 2010 can be detached
and/or disengaged from the lateral side walls 2040 and 2041 when
the cartridge body 2010 is implanted with the staples 2020.
[0512] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 43, a surgical
instrument can comprise a shaft 2150 and an end effector extending
from the distal end of the shaft 2150. The end effector can
comprise, similar to the above, a staple cartridge channel 2130, an
anvil 2140 movable between an open position and a closed position,
and a staple cartridge 2100 positioned intermediate the staple
cartridge channel 2130 and the anvil 2140. Also similar to the
above, the staple cartridge 2100 can comprise a compressible,
implantable cartridge body 2110 and a plurality of staples 2120
positioned in the cartridge body 2110. In various embodiments, the
staple cartridge channel 2130 can comprise, one, a bottom support
surface 2131 against which the staple cartridge 2100 can be
positioned, two, a distal end 2135 and, three, a proximal end 2136.
In at least one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 43, the staple
cartridge 2100 can comprise a first end 2105 which can be
positionable in the distal end 2135 of the staple cartridge channel
2130 and a second end 2106 which can be positionable in the
proximal end 2136 of the staple cartridge channel 2130. In various
embodiments, the distal end 2135 of the staple cartridge channel
2130 can comprise at least one distal retention feature, such as a
retention wall 2137, for example, and, similarly, the proximal end
2136 can comprise at least one proximal retention feature, such as
a retention wall 2138, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, the distal retention wall 2137 and the proximal
retention wall 2138 can define a gap therebetween which can be
equal to or less than the length of the staple cartridge 2100 such
that the staple cartridge 2100 can fit securely within the staple
cartridge channel 2130 when the staple cartridge 2100 is inserted
therein.
[0513] In various embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 23 and 24,
a staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 1200, for example, can
comprise a flat, or at least substantially flat, tissue-contacting
surface 1219. In at least one such embodiment, the staple cartridge
body 1210 of staple cartridge 1200 can comprise a first end 1205
which can be defined by a first height, or thickness, 1207 and a
second end 1206 which can be defined by a second height, or
thickness, 1208, wherein the first height 1207 can be equal to, or
at least substantially equal to, the second height 1208. In certain
embodiments, the cartridge body 1210 can comprise a constant, or at
least substantially constant, height, or thickness, between the
first end 1205 and the second end 1206. In at least one such
embodiment, the tissue-contacting surface 1219 can be parallel, or
at least substantially parallel, to the bottom surface 1218 of the
cartridge body 1210. In various embodiments, referring once again
to FIG. 43, the first end 2105 of the cartridge body 2110 of staple
cartridge 2100 can be defined by a first height 2107 which is
different than a second height 2108 of the second end 2106. In the
illustrated embodiment, the first height 2107 is larger than the
second height 2108, although the second height 2108 could be larger
than the first height 2107 in alternative embodiments. In various
embodiments, the height of the cartridge body 2110 can decrease
linearly and/or geometrically between the first end 2105 and the
second end 2106. In at least one such embodiment, the
tissue-contacting surface 2119, which extends between the first end
2105 and the second end 2106, can be oriented along an angle
defined therebetween. In at least one such embodiment, the
tissue-contacting surface 2119 may not be parallel to the bottom
surface 2118 of the cartridge body 2110 and/or parallel to the
support surface 2131 of the staple cartridge channel 2130.
[0514] In various embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 43 and 44,
the anvil 2140 can comprise a tissue-contacting surface 2141 which
can be parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the support
surface 2131 of the staple cartridge channel 2130 when the anvil
2140 is in a closed position, as illustrated in FIG. 44. When the
anvil 2140 is in a closed position, the anvil 2140 can be
configured to compress the first end 2105 of the staple cartridge
2100 more than the second end 2106 owing to the taller height of
the first end 2105 and the shorter height of the second end 2106.
In some circumstances, including circumstances where the tissue T
positioned intermediate the tissue contacting surfaces 2119 and
2141 has a constant, or at least substantially constant, thickness,
the pressure generated within the tissue T and the cartridge 2100
can be greater at the distal end of the end effector than the
proximal end of the end effector. More particularly, when the
tissue T between the anvil 2140 and the staple cartridge 2100 has a
substantially constant thickness, the tissue T positioned
intermediate the distal end 2145 of the anvil 2140 and the first
end 2105 of the staple cartridge 2100 can be more compressed than
the tissue T positioned intermediate the proximal end 2146 of the
anvil 2140 and the second end 2106 of the staple cartridge 2100. In
various embodiments, a pressure gradient can be generated within
the tissue T between the proximal end and the distal end of the end
effector. More particularly, in at least one embodiment, when the
tissue T between the anvil 2140 and the staple cartridge 2100 has a
substantially constant thickness and the height of the staple
cartridge 2100 decreases linearly from the distal end to the
proximal end of the end effector, the pressure within the tissue T
can decrease linearly from the distal end of the end effector to
the proximal end of the end effector. Similarly, in at least one
embodiment, when the tissue T between the anvil 2140 and the staple
cartridge 2100 has a substantially constant thickness and the
height of the staple cartridge 2100 decreases geometrically from
the distal end to the proximal end of the end effector, the
pressure within the tissue T can decrease geometrically from the
distal end of the end effector to the proximal end of the end
effector.
[0515] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 43, the
tissue T positioned intermediate the staple cartridge 2100 and the
anvil 2140 may not have a constant thickness throughout. In at
least one such circumstance, the tissue T positioned between the
proximal end 2146 of the anvil 2140 and the second end 2106 of the
staple cartridge 2100 may be thicker than the tissue T positioned
between the distal end 2145 of the anvil 2140 and the first end
2105 of the staple cartridge 2100. In such circumstances, as a
result, the thicker tissue T may be generally positioned above the
shorter proximal end 2106 of the staple cartridge 2100 and the
thinner tissue T may be generally positioned above the taller
distal end 2105. In use, the firing collar 2152 of the shaft 2150
can be advanced distally along the shaft spine 2151 such that the
firing collar 2152 engages the cam portion 2143 of the anvil 2140
and rotates the anvil 2140 toward the staple cartridge 2100 as
illustrated in FIG. 44. Once the anvil 2140 has been rotated into a
fully-closed position, the tissue T may be compressed between the
tissue-contacting surfaces 2119 and 2141 and, even though the
height of the staple cartridge 2100 may not be constant between the
proximal and distal ends of the end effector, the pressure or
compressive forces applied to the tissue T may be constant, or at
least substantially constant, thereacross. More particularly, as
the thinner tissue T may be associated with the taller height of
the staple cartridge 2100 and the thicker tissue T may be
associated with the shorter height of the staple cartridge 2100,
the cumulative, or summed, height of the tissue T and the staple
cartridge 2100 may be constant, or at least substantially constant,
between the proximal and distal ends of the end effector and, as a
result, the compression of this cumulative height by the anvil 2140
may be constant, or at least substantially constant,
thereacross.
[0516] In various embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 43 and 44,
the staple cartridge 2100 can comprise an asymmetrical
configuration. In at least one such embodiment, for example, the
height of the staple cartridge 2100 at the first end 2105 thereof
may be higher than the height of the staple cartridge 2100 at the
second end 2106 thereof. In certain embodiments, the staple
cartridge 2100 and/or the staple cartridge channel 2130 can
comprise one or more alignment and/or retention features which can
be configured to assure that the staple cartridge 2100 can only be
positioned within the staple cartridge channel 2130 in one
orientation, i.e., an orientation in which the first end 2105 is
positioned in the distal end 2135 of the staple cartridge channel
2130 and the second end 2106 is positioned in the proximal end
2136. In various alternative embodiments, the staple cartridge 2100
and/or the staple cartridge channel 2130 can comprise one or more
alignment and/or retention features which can be configured to
permit the staple cartridge 2100 to be positioned within the staple
cartridge channel 2130 in more than one orientation. Referring now
to FIG. 45, for example, the staple cartridge 2100 can be
positioned within the staple cartridge channel 2130 such that the
first end 2105 of the staple cartridge 2100 can be positioned in
the proximal end 2136 of the staple cartridge channel 2130 and the
second end 2106 can be positioned in the distal end 2135. In
various embodiments, as a result, the shorter height of the staple
cartridge 2100 can be positioned proximate the distal retention
wall 2137 and the taller height of the staple cartridge 2100 can be
positioned proximate to the proximal retention wall 2138. In at
least one such embodiment, the staple cartridge 2100 can be
suitably arranged to apply a constant, or at least substantially
constant, clamping pressure to tissue T having a thicker portion
within the distal end of the end effector and a thinner portion
within the proximal end of the end effector. In various
embodiments, the staple cartridge 2100, for example, can be
selectively oriented within the staple cartridge channel 2130. In
at least one such embodiment, the alignment and/or retention
features of the staple cartridge 2100 can be symmetrical and a
surgeon can selectively orient the staple cartridge 2100 within the
staple cartridge channel 2130 in the orientations depicted in FIG.
43 and FIG. 45, for example.
[0517] Further to the above, the implantable cartridge body 2110
can comprise a longitudinal axis 2109 which, when the staple
cartridge 2100 is positioned in the staple cartridge channel 2130,
can extend between the proximal and distal ends of the end
effector. In various embodiments, the thickness of the cartridge
body 2110 can generally decrease and/or generally increase between
the first end 2105 and the second end 2106 along the longitudinal
axis 2109. In at least one such embodiment, the distance, or
height, between the bottom surface 2118 and the tissue-contacting
surface 2119 can generally decrease and/or generally increase
between the first end 2105 and the second end 2106. In certain
embodiments, the thickness of the cartridge body 2110 can both
increase and decrease along the longitudinal axis 2109. In at least
one such embodiment, the thickness of the cartridge body 2110 can
comprise one or more portions which increase in thickness and one
or more portions which can decrease in thickness. In various
embodiments, the staple cartridge 2100 can comprise a plurality of
staples 2120 positioned therein. In use, as described above, the
staples 2120 can be deformed when the anvil 2140 is moved into a
closed position. In certain embodiments, each staple 2120 can have
the same, or at least substantially the same, height. In at least
one such embodiment, the height of a staple can be measured from
the bottom of the base of the staple to the top, or tip, of the
tallest leg of the staple, for example.
[0518] In various embodiments, the staples within a staple
cartridge can have different staple heights. In at least one such
embodiment, a staple cartridge can comprise a first group of
staples having a first staple height which are positioned in a
first portion of a compressible cartridge body and a second group
of staples having a second staple height which are positioned in a
second portion of the compressible cartridge body. In at least one
embodiment, the first staple height can be taller than the second
staple height and the first group of staples can be positioned in
the first end 2105 of the staple cartridge 2100 while the second
group of staples can be positioned in the second end 2106.
Alternatively, the taller first group of staples can be positioned
in the second end 2106 of the staple cartridge 2100 while the
shorter second group of staples can be positioned in the first end
2105. In certain embodiments, a plurality of staple groups, each
group having a different staple height, can be utilized. In at
least one such embodiment, a third group having an intermediate
staple height can be positioned in the cartridge body 2110
intermediate the first group of staples and the second group of
staples. In various embodiments, each staple within a staple row in
the staple cartridge can comprise a different staple height. In at
least one embodiment, the tallest staple within a staple row can be
positioned on a first end of a staple row and the shortest staple
can be positioned on an opposite end of the staple row. In at least
one such embodiment, the staples positioned intermediate the
tallest staple and the shortest staple can be arranged such that
the staple heights descend between the tallest staple and the
shortest staple, for example.
[0519] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 46, an end
effector of a surgical stapler can comprise an anvil 2240, a staple
cartridge channel 2230, and a staple cartridge 2200 supported by
the staple cartridge channel 2230. The staple cartridge 2200 can
comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge body 2210 and a
plurality of staples, such as staples 2220a and staples 2220b, for
example, positioned therein. In various embodiments, the staple
cartridge channel 2230 can comprise a cartridge support surface
2231 and a plurality of staple support slots, such as support slots
2232a and 2232b, for example, defined therein. In at least one such
embodiment, the staple cartridge 2200 can comprise two outer rows
of staples 2220a and two inner rows of staples 2220b, wherein the
support slots 2232a can be configured to support the staples 2220a
and the support slots 2232b can be configured to support the
staples 2220b. Referring to FIGS. 46 and 47, the anvil 2240 can
comprise a plurality of staple forming pockets 2242 defined therein
which can be configured to receive and deform the staples 2220a and
2220b when the anvil 2240 is moved toward the staple cartridge
2200. In at least one such embodiment, the bottom surfaces of the
support slots 2232a can be a first distance 2201a away from the top
surfaces of the staple forming pockets 2242 while the bottom
surfaces of the support slots 2232b can be a second distance 2201b
away from the top surfaces of the staple forming pockets 2242. In
at least one such embodiment, the support slots 2232b are
positioned closer to the anvil 2240 owing to the raised step in the
support surface 2231 in which they are defined. Owing to the
different distances 2201a and 2201b, in various embodiments, the
outer rows of staples 2220a and the inner rows of staples 2220b can
be deformed to different formed heights. In various circumstances,
staples deformed to different formed heights can apply different
clamping pressures or forces to the tissue T being stapled. In
addition to the above, the staples can begin with different
unformed staple heights. In at least one such embodiment, referring
again to FIG. 46, the outer staples 2220a can have an initial,
unformed height which is greater than the initial, unformed height
of the inner staples 2220b. As illustrated in FIGS. 46 and 47, the
inner staples 2220b, which have a shorter unformed height than the
outer staples 2220a, can also have a shorter formed height than the
outer staples 2220b. In various alternative embodiments, the inner
staples 2220b may have a taller unformed height than the outer
staples 2220a yet have a shorter deformed staple height than the
outer staples 2220a.
[0520] In various embodiments, further to the above, the anvil 2240
can be moved into a closed position, as illustrated in FIG. 47, in
order to compress the cartridge body 2210 and deform the staples
2220a and 2220b. In certain embodiments, a surgical stapler
comprising the end effector depicted in FIGS. 46 and 47, for
example, can further comprise a cutting member which can be
configured to transect the tissue T positioned intermediate the
anvil 2240 and the staple cartridge 2200. In at least one such
embodiment, the anvil 2240, the staple cartridge channel 2230
and/or the staple cartridge 2200 can define a slot configured to
slidably receive a cutting member therein. More particularly, the
anvil 2240 can comprise a slot portion 2249, the staple cartridge
channel 2230 can comprise a slot portion 2239, and the staple
cartridge 2200 can comprise a slot portion 2203 which can be
aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with one another when
the anvil 2240 is in a closed, or at least substantially closed,
position. In various embodiments, the cutting member can be moved
from the proximal end of the end effector toward the distal end of
the end effector after the anvil 2240 has been closed and the
staples 2220a, 2220b have been deformed. In at least one
embodiment, the cutting member can be moved independently of the
staple deformation process. In certain embodiments, the cutting
member can be advanced at the same time that the staples are being
deformed. In any event, in at least one embodiment, the cutting
member can be configured to incise the tissue along a path
positioned intermediate the inner rows of staples 2220b.
[0521] In various embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 47, the inner
staples 2220b can be formed to a shorter height than the outer
staples 2220a wherein the inner staples 2220b can apply a larger
clamping pressure or force to the tissue adjacent to the cut line
created by the cutting member. In at least one such embodiment, the
larger clamping pressure or force created by the inner staples
2220b can provide various therapeutic benefits such as reducing
bleeding from the incised tissue T while the smaller clamping
pressure created by the outer staples 2220a can provide flexibility
within the stapled tissue. In various embodiments, referring again
to FIGS. 46 and 47, the anvil 2240 can further comprise at least
one piece of buttress material, such as buttress material 2260, for
example, attached thereto. In at least one such embodiment, the
legs of the staples 2220a, 2220b can be configured to incise the
buttress material 2260 and/or pass through apertures in the
buttress material 2260 when the staple cartridge 2200 is compressed
by the anvil 2240 and thereafter contact the staple forming pockets
2242 in the anvil 2240. As the legs of the staples 2220a, 2220b are
being deformed, the legs can contact and/or incise the buttress
material 2260 once again. In various embodiments, the buttress
material 2260 can improve the hemostasis of and/or provide strength
to the tissue being stapled.
[0522] In various embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 46 and 47,
the bottom surface of the cartridge body 2210 can comprise a
stepped contour which matches, or at least substantially matches,
the stepped contour of the cartridge support surface 2231. In
certain embodiments, the bottom surface of the cartridge body 2210
can deform to match, or at least substantially match, the contour
of the cartridge support surface 2231. In various embodiments,
referring now to FIG. 48, an end effector, similar to the end
effector depicted in FIG. 46, for example, can comprise a staple
cartridge 2300 positioned therein. The staple cartridge 2300 can
comprise a compressible, implantable body 2310 comprising an inner
layer 2312 and an outer layer 2311 wherein, further to the above,
the outer layer 2311 can be comprised of a water impermeable
material in at least one embodiment. In various embodiments, the
outer layer 2311 can extend around the staples 2220a, 2220b and can
be positioned intermediate the staples 2220a, 2220b and the support
slots 2232a, 2232b, respectively. In various embodiments, referring
now to FIG. 49, an end effector, similar to the end effector
depicted in FIG. 46, for example, can comprise a staple cartridge
2400 positioned therein. Similar to the staple cartridge 2300, the
compressible, implantable cartridge body 2410 of staple cartridge
2400 can comprise an inner layer 2412 and an outer layer 2411;
however; in at least one embodiment, the cartridge body 2410 may
not comprise a cutting member slot therein. In at least one such
embodiment, the cutting member may be required to incise the inner
layer 2412 and/or the outer layer 2411, for example, as it is
advanced through the staple cartridge.
[0523] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 50, an end
effector of a surgical stapler can comprise an anvil 2540, a staple
cartridge channel 2530, and a staple cartridge 2500 positioned in
the staple cartridge channel 2530. Similar to the above, the staple
cartridge 2500 can comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge
body 2510, outer rows of staples 2220a, and inner rows of staples
2220b. The staple cartridge channel 2530 can comprise a flat, or an
at least substantially flat, cartridge support surface 2531 and
staple support slots 2532 defined therein. The anvil 2540 can
comprise a stepped surface 2541 and a plurality of staple forming
pockets, such as forming pockets 2542a and 2542b, for example,
defined therein. Similar to the above, the forming pockets 2542a
and the support slots 2532 can define a distance therebetween which
is greater than the distance between the forming pockets 2452b and
the support slots 2532. In various embodiments, the anvil 2540 can
further comprise a piece of buttress material 2560 attached to the
stepped surface 2541 of the anvil 2540. In at least one such
embodiment, the buttress material 2560 can conform, or at least
substantially conform, to the stepped surface 2541. In various
embodiments, the buttress material 2560 can be removably attached
to the surface 2541 by at least one adhesive, such as fibrin and/or
protein hydrogel, for example. In certain embodiments, the
cartridge body 2510 can also comprise a stepped profile which, in
at least one embodiment, parallels, or at least substantially
parallels, the stepped surface 2541 of the anvil 2540. More
particularly, in at least one embodiment, the anvil 2540 can
comprise steps 2548 extending toward the staple cartridge 2500
wherein the steps 2548 can comprise a step height which equals, or
at least substantially equals, the step height of the steps 2508
extending from the cartridge body 2510. In at least one such
embodiment, as a result of the above, the amount of the
compressible cartridge body 2510 that can be captured in the first
staples 2220a can be different than the amount of the compressible
cartridge body 2510 that can be captured in the second staples
2220b, for example.
[0524] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 51, an end
effector can comprise an anvil 2640, a staple cartridge channel
2530, and a staple cartridge 2600 positioned therebetween. The
staple cartridge 2600 can comprise a compressible, implantable
cartridge body 2610 including an inner layer 2612, an outer layer
2611, and a plurality of staples, such as staples 2220a and 2200b,
for example, positioned therein. In various embodiments, the anvil
2640 can comprise a plurality of staple forming pockets 2642 in
surface 2641 and the staple cartridge channel 2530 can comprise a
plurality of staple forming slots 2532 defined in the support
surface 2531. As illustrated in FIG. 51, the anvil surface 2641 can
be parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the cartridge
support surface 2531 wherein each forming pocket 2642 can be
positioned an equal, or at least substantially equal, distance away
from an opposing and corresponding staple support slot 2532. In
various embodiments, the staple cartridge 2600 can comprise staples
having the same, or at least substantially the same, initial,
unformed staple height and, in addition, the same, or at least
substantially the same, formed staple height. In certain other
embodiments, the outer rows of staples can comprise staples 2220a
and the inner rows of staples can comprise staples 2220b wherein,
as discussed above, the staples 2220a and 2220b can have different
unformed staple heights. When the anvil 2640 is moved toward the
staple cartridge 2600 into a closed position, the staples 2220a and
2220b can be formed such that they have the same, or at least
substantially the same, formed staple height. In at least one such
embodiment, as a result of the above, the formed outer staples
2220a and the inner staples 2220b may have the same, or at least
substantially the same, amount of compressible cartridge body 2610
contained therein; however, as the outer staples 2220a have a
taller unformed staple height than the inner staples 2220b and may
have the same formed staple height nonetheless, a greater clamping
pressure can be generated in the outer staples 2220a than the inner
staples 2220b, for example.
[0525] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 52, an end
effector of a surgical stapler can comprise an anvil 2740, a staple
cartridge channel 2530, and a staple cartridge 2700 positioned
within the staple cartridge channel 2530. Similar to the above, the
staple cartridge 2700 can comprise a compressible, implantable
cartridge body 2710 comprising an inner layer 2712, an outer layer
2711, and a plurality of staples, such as staples 2220a and 2220b,
for example, positioned therein. In at least one embodiment, the
thickness of the cartridge body 2710 can vary across its width. In
at least one such embodiment, the cartridge body 2710 can comprise
a center portion 2708 and side portions 2709, wherein the center
portion 2708 can comprise a thickness which is greater than the
thickness of the side portions 2709. In various embodiments, the
thickest portion of the cartridge body 2710 can be located at the
center portion 2708 while the thinnest portion of the cartridge
body 2710 can be located at the side portions 2709. In at least one
such embodiment, the thickness of the cartridge body 2710 can
decrease gradually between the center portion 2708 and the side
portions 2709. In certain embodiments, the thickness of the
cartridge body 2710 can decrease linearly and/or geometrically
between the center portion 2708 and the side portions 2709. In at
least one such embodiment, the tissue-contacting surface 2719 of
cartridge body 2710 can comprise two inclined, or angled, surfaces
which slope downwardly from the center portion 2708 toward the side
portions 2709. In various embodiments, the anvil 2740 can comprise
two inclined, or angled, surfaces which parallel, or at least
substantially parallel, the inclined tissue-contacting surfaces
2719. In at least one embodiment, the anvil 2740 can further
comprise at least one piece of buttress material 2760 attached to
the inclined surfaces of the anvil 2740.
[0526] In various embodiments, further to the above, the inner rows
of staples in the staple cartridge 2700 can comprise the taller
staples 2220a and the outer rows of staples can comprise the
shorter staples 2220b. In at least one embodiment, the taller
staples 2220a can be positioned within and/or adjacent to the
thicker center portion 2708 while the staples 2220b can be
positioned within and/or adjacent to the side portions 2709. In at
least one such embodiment, as a result of the above, the taller
staples 2220a can capture more material of the implantable
cartridge body 2710 than the shorter staples 2220b. Such
circumstances could result in the staples 2220a applying a greater
clamping pressure to the tissue T than the staples 2220b. In
certain embodiments, even though the taller staples 2220a may
capture more material of the cartridge body 2710 therein than the
shorter staples 2220b, the taller staples 2220a may have a taller
formed staple height than the shorter staples 2220b owing to the
inclined arrangement of the staple forming pockets 2742a and 2742b.
Such considerations can be utilized to achieve a desired clamping
pressure within the tissue captured by the staples 2220a and 2220b
wherein, as a result, the clamping pressure in the staples 2220a
can be greater than, less than, or equal to the clamping pressure
applied to the tissue by the staples 2220b, for example. In various
alternative embodiments to the end effector illustrated in FIG. 52,
the shorter staples 2220b can be positioned within and/or adjacent
to the thicker center portion 2708 of the cartridge body 2710 and
the taller staples 2220a can be positioned within and/or adjacent
to the thinner side portions 2709. Furthermore, although the staple
cartridge 2700 is depicted as comprising inner and outer rows of
staples, the staple cartridge 2700 may comprise additional rows of
staples, such as staple rows positioned intermediate the inner and
outer rows of staples, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, the intermediate staple rows can comprise staples
having an unformed staple height which is intermediate the unformed
staple heights of the staples 2220a and 2220b and a formed staple
height which is intermediate the formed staple heights of the
staples 2220a and 2220b, for example.
[0527] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 53, an end
effector of a surgical stapler can comprise an anvil 2840, a staple
cartridge channel 2530, and a staple cartridge 2800 positioned
within the staple cartridge channel 2530. Similar to the above, the
staple cartridge 2800 can comprise a compressible, implantable
cartridge body 2810 comprising an inner layer 2812, an outer layer
2811, and a plurality of staples, such as staples 2220a and 2220b,
for example, positioned therein. In at least one embodiment, the
thickness of the cartridge body 2810 can vary across its width. In
at least one such embodiment, the cartridge body 2810 can comprise
a center portion 2808 and side portions 2809, wherein the center
portion 2808 can comprise a thickness which is less than the
thickness of the side portions 2809. In various embodiments, the
thinnest portion of the cartridge body 2810 can be located at the
center portion 2808 while the thickest portion of the cartridge
body 2810 can be located at the side portions 2809. In at least one
such embodiment, the thickness of the cartridge body 2810 can
increase gradually between the center portion 2808 and the side
portions 2809. In certain embodiments, the thickness of the
cartridge body 2810 can increase linearly and/or geometrically
between the center portion 2808 and the side portions 2809. In at
least one such embodiment, the tissue-contacting surface 2819 of
cartridge body 2810 can comprise two inclined, or angled, surfaces
which slope upwardly from the center portion 2808 toward the side
portions 2809. In various embodiments, the anvil 2840 can comprise
two inclined, or angled, surfaces which parallel, or at least
substantially parallel, the inclined tissue-contacting surfaces
2819. In at least one embodiment, the anvil 2840 can further
comprise at least one piece of buttress material 2860 attached to
the inclined surfaces of the anvil 2840. In various embodiments,
further to the above, the outer rows of staples in the staple
cartridge 2800 can comprise the taller staples 2220a and the inner
rows of staples can comprise the shorter staples 2220b. In at least
one embodiment, the taller staples 2220a can be positioned within
and/or adjacent to the thicker side portions 2809 while the staples
2220b can be positioned within and/or adjacent to the center
portion 2808. In at least one such embodiment, as a result of the
above, the taller staples 2220a can capture more material of the
implantable cartridge body 2810 than the shorter staples 2220b.
[0528] As described above with regard to the embodiment of FIG. 46,
for example, the staple cartridge channel 2230 can comprise a
stepped support surface 2231 which can be configured to support the
staples 2220a and 2220b at different heights with respect the anvil
2240. In various embodiments, the staple cartridge channel 2230 can
be comprised of metal and the steps in the support surface 2231 may
be formed in the support surface 2231 by a grinding operation, for
example. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 54, an end
effector of a surgical instrument can comprise a staple cartridge
channel 2930 comprising a support insert 2935 positioned therein.
More particularly, in at least one embodiment, the staple cartridge
channel 2930 can be formed such that it has a flat, or at least
substantially flat, support surface 2931, for example, which can be
configured to support the insert 2935 which comprises the stepped
surfaces for supporting the staples 2220a and 2220b of the staple
cartridge 2200 at different heights. In at least one such
embodiment, the insert 2935 can comprise a flat, or at least
substantially flat, bottom surface which can be positioned against
the support surface 2931. The insert 2935 can further comprise
support slots, grooves, or troughs 2932a and 2932b which can be
configured to support the staples 2220a and 2220b, respectively, at
different heights. Similar to the above, the insert 2935 can
comprise a knife slot 2939 defined therein which can be configured
to permit a cutting member to pass therethrough. In various
embodiments, the staple cartridge channel 2930 can be comprised of
the same material as or a different material than the support
insert 2935. In at least one embodiment, the staple cartridge
channel 2930 and the support insert 2935 can both be comprised of
metal, for example, while, in other embodiments, the staple
cartridge channel 2930 can be comprised of metal, for example, and
the support insert 2935 can be comprised of plastic, for example.
In various embodiments, the support insert 2935 can be fastened
and/or welded into the staple cartridge channel 2930. In certain
embodiments, the support insert 2935 can be snap-fit and/or
press-fit into the staple cartridge channel 2930. In at least one
embodiment the support insert 2935 can be secured in the staple
cartridge channel 2930 using an adhesive.
[0529] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 55, an end
effector of a surgical stapler can comprise an anvil 3040, a staple
cartridge channel 3030, and a compressible, implantable staple
cartridge 3000 positioned in the staple cartridge channel 3030.
Similar to the above, the anvil 3040 can comprise a plurality of
staple-forming pockets 3042 defined therein and a knife slot 3049
which can be configured to slidably receive a cutting member
therein. Also similar to the above, the staple cartridge channel
3030 can comprise a plurality of staple support slots 3032 defined
therein and a knife slot 3039 which can also be configured to
slidably receive a cutting member therein. In various embodiments,
the staple cartridge 3000 can comprise a first layer 3011, a second
layer 3012, and a plurality of staples, such as staples 3020a and
3020b, for example, positioned therein. In at least one embodiment,
the staples 3020a can comprise an unformed staple height which is
taller than the unformed staple height of the staples 3020b. In
various embodiments, the first layer 3011 can be comprised of a
first compressible material and the second layer 3012 can be
comprised of a second compressible material. In certain
embodiments, the first compressible material can be compressed at a
rate which is higher than the second compressible material while,
in certain other embodiments, the first compressible material can
be compressed at a rate which is lower than the second compressible
material. In at least one embodiment, the first compressible
material can be comprised of a resilient material which can
comprise a first spring rate and the second compressible material
can be comprised of a resilient material which can comprise a
second spring rate which is different than the first spring rate.
In various embodiments, the first compressible material can
comprise a spring rate which is greater than the spring rate of the
second compressible material. In certain other embodiments, the
first compressible material can comprise a spring rate which is
less than the spring rate of the second compressible material. In
various embodiments, the first compressible layer can comprise a
first stiffness and the second compressible layer can comprise a
second stiffness, wherein the first stiffness is different than the
second stiffness. In various embodiments, the first compressible
layer can comprise a stiffness which is greater than the stiffness
of the second compressible layer. In certain other embodiments, the
first compressible layer can comprise a stiffness which is less
than the stiffness of the second compressible layer.
[0530] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 55, the
second layer 3012 of the staple cartridge 3000 can comprise a
constant, or at least substantially constant, thickness across the
width thereof. In at least one embodiment, the first layer 3011 can
comprise a thickness which varies across the width thereof. In at
least one such embodiment, the first layer 3011 can comprise one or
more steps 3008 which can increase the thickness of the cartridge
body 3010 in certain portions of the cartridge body 3010, such as
the center portion, for example. Referring again to FIG. 55, the
shorter staples 3020b can be positioned in or aligned with the
steps 3008, i.e., the thicker portions of the cartridge body 3010,
and the taller staples 3020a can be positioned in or aligned with
the thinner portions of the cartridge body 3010. In various
embodiments, as a result of the thicker and thinner portions of the
cartridge body 3010, the stiffness of the cartridge body 3010 can
be greater along the inner rows of staples 3020b than the outer
rows of staples 3020a. In various embodiments, the first layer 3011
can be connected to the second layer 3012. In at least one such
embodiment, the first layer 3011 and the second layer 3012 can
comprise interlocking features which can retain the layers 3011 and
3012 together. In certain embodiments, the first layer 3011 can
comprise a first laminate and the second layer 3012 can comprise a
second laminate, wherein the first laminate can be adhered to the
second laminate by one or more adhesives. In various embodiments,
the staple cartridge 3000 can comprise a knife slot 3003 which can
be configured to slidably receive a cutting member therein.
[0531] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 56, a staple
cartridge 3100 can comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge
body 3110 comprising a single layer of compressible material and,
in addition, a plurality of staples, such as staples 3020b, for
example, positioned therein. In at least one embodiment, the
thickness of the cartridge body 3110 can vary across the width
thereof. In at least one such embodiment, the cartridge body 3110
can comprise steps 3108 extending along the side portions thereof.
In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 57, a staple
cartridge 3200 can comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge
body 3210 comprising a single layer of compressible material and,
in addition, a plurality of staples, such as staples 3020b, for
example, positioned therein. In at least one embodiment, the
thickness of the cartridge body 3210 can vary across the width
thereof. In at least one such embodiment, the cartridge body 3210
can comprise steps 3208 extending along the center portion thereof.
In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 58, a staple
cartridge 3300 can comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge
body 3310 wherein, similar to the above, the thickness of the
cartridge body 3310 can vary across the width thereof. In at least
one embodiment, the thickness of the cartridge body 3310 can
increase geometrically between the side portions and the center
portion of the cartridge body 3310. In at least one such
embodiment, the thickness of the cartridge body 3310 can be defined
by an arcuate or curved profile and can comprise an arcuate or
curved tissue-contacting surface 3319. In certain embodiments, the
thickness of the cartridge body 3310, and the contour of the
tissue-contacting surface 3319, can be defined by one radius of
curvature or, alternatively, by several radiuses of curvature, for
example. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 59, a staple
cartridge 3400 can comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge
body 3410 wherein the thickness of the cartridge body 3410 can
increase linearly, or at least substantially linearly, between the
side portions and the center portion of the cartridge body
3410.
[0532] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 60, a staple
cartridge 3500 can comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge
body 3510 and a plurality of staples 3520 positioned therein. The
implantable cartridge body 3510 can comprise a first inner layer
3512, a second inner layer 3513, and an outer layer 3511. In at
least one embodiment, the first inner layer 3512 can comprise a
first thickness and the second inner layer 3513 can comprise a
second thickness wherein the second inner layer 3513 can be thicker
than the first inner layer 3512. In at least one alternative
embodiment, the first inner layer 3512 can be thicker than the
second inner layer 3513. In another alternative embodiment, the
first inner layer 3512 can have the same, or at least substantially
the same, thickness as the second inner layer 3513. In certain
embodiments, each staple 3520 can comprise a base 3522 and one or
more deformable legs 3521 extending from the base 3522. In various
embodiments, each leg 3521 can comprise a tip 3523 which is
embedded in the first inner layer 3511 and, in addition, each base
3522 of the staples 3520 can be embedded in the second inner layer
3512. In at least one embodiment, the first inner layer 3512 and/or
the second inner layer 3513 can comprise at least one medicament
stored therein and, in various embodiments, the outer layer 3511
can encapsulate and seal the first inner layer 3512 and the second
inner layer 3513 such that the medicament does not flow out of the
staple cartridge body 3510 until after the outer layer 3511 has
been punctured by the staples 3520. More particularly, further to
the above, an anvil can be pushed downwardly against tissue
positioned against the tissue-contacting surface 3519 of staple
cartridge 3500 such that the cartridge body 3510 is compressed and
the surface 3519 is moved downwardly toward, and at least partially
below, the staple tips 3523 such that the tips 3523 rupture or
puncture the outer layer 3511. After the outer layer 3511 has been
breached by the staple legs 3521, the at least one medicament M can
flow out of the cartridge body 3510 around the staple legs 3521. In
various circumstances, additional compression of the cartridge body
3510 can squeeze additional medicament M out of the cartridge body
3510 as illustrated in FIG.
[0533] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 60, the
outer layer 3511 can comprise a water impermeable, or at least
substantially impermeable, wrap which can configured to, one, keep
the medicament from prematurely flowing out of the staple cartridge
3500 and, two, prevent fluids within a surgical site, for example,
from prematurely entering into the staple cartridge 3500. In
certain embodiments, the first inner layer 3512 can comprise a
first medicament stored, or absorbed, therein and the second inner
layer 3513 can comprise a second medicament stored, or absorbed,
therein, wherein the second medicament can be different than the
first medicament. In at least one embodiment, an initial
compression of the cartridge body 3510, which causes the rupture of
the outer layer 3511, can generally express the first medicament
out of the first inner layer 3512 and a subsequent compression of
the cartridge body 3510 can generally express the second medicament
out of the second inner layer 3513. In such embodiments, however,
portions of the first medicament and the second medicament may be
expressed simultaneously although a majority of the medicament that
is initially expressed can be comprised of the first medicament and
a majority of the medicament subsequently expressed thereafter can
be comprised of the second medicament. In certain embodiments,
further to the above, the first inner layer 3512 can be comprised
of a more compressible material than the second inner layer 3513
such that the initial compression forces or pressure, which can be
lower than the subsequent compression forces or pressure, can cause
a larger initial deflection within the first inner layer 3512 than
the second inner layer 3513. This larger initial deflection within
the first inner layer 3512 can cause a larger portion of the first
medicament to be expressed from the first inner layer 3512 than the
second medicament from the second inner layer 3513. In at least one
embodiment, the first inner layer 3512 can be more porous and/or
more flexible than the second inner layer 3513. In at least one
such embodiment, the first inner layer 3512 can comprise a
plurality of pores, or voids, 3508 defined therein and the second
inner layer 3513 can comprise a plurality of pores, or voids, 3509
defined therein wherein, in various embodiments, the pores 3508 can
be configured to store the first medicament in the first inner
layer 3512 and the pores 3509 can be configured to store the second
medicament in the second inner layer 3513. In certain embodiments,
the size and density of the pores 3508 within the first inner layer
3512 and the pores 3509 within the second inner layer 3513 can be
selected so as to provide a desired result described herein.
[0534] In various embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 60 and 61,
the outer layer 3511, the first inner layer 3512, and/or the second
inner layer 3513 can be comprised of a bioabsorbable material. In
at least one embodiment, the first inner layer 3512 can be
comprised of a first bioabsorbable material, the second inner layer
3513 can be comprised of a second bioabsorbable material, and the
outer layer 3511 can be comprised of a third bioabsorbable
material, wherein the first bioabsorbable material, the second
bioabsorbable material, and/or the third bioabsorbable material can
be comprised of different materials. In certain embodiments, the
first bioabsorbable material can be bioabsorbed at a first rate,
the second bioabsorbable material can be bioabsorbed at a second
rate, and the third bioabsorbable material can be bioabsorbed at a
third rate, wherein the first rate, the second rate, and/or the
third rate can be different. In at least one such embodiment, when
a material is bioabsorbed at a particular rate, such a rate can be
defined as the amount of material mass that is absorbed by a
patient's body over a unit of time. As it is known, the bodies of
different patients may absorb different materials at different
rates and, thus, such rates may be expressed as average rates in
order to account for such variability. In any event, a faster rate
may be a rate in which more mass is bioabsorbed for a unit of time
than a slower rate. In various embodiments, referring again to
FIGS. 60 and 61, the first inner layer 3512 and/or the second inner
layer 3513 can be comprised of a material which bioabsorbs faster
than the material comprising the outer layer 3511. In at least one
such embodiment, the first inner layer 3512 and/or the second inner
layer 3513 can be comprised of a bioabsorbable foam, tissue
sealant, and/or hemostatic material, such as oxidized regenerated
cellulose (ORC), for example, and the outer layer 3511 can be
comprised of a buttress material and/or plastic material, such as
polyglycolic acid (PGA) which is marketed under the trade name
Vicryl, polylactic acid (PLA or PLLA), polydioxanone (PDS),
polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which is
marketed under the trade name Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL),
and/or a composite of PGA, PLA, PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for
example. In such embodiments, the first inner layer 3512 and/or the
second inner layer 3513 can immediately treat the tissue and can
reduce bleeding from the tissue, for example, wherein the outer
layer 3514 can provide longer-term structural support and can be
bioabsorbed at a slower rate.
[0535] Owing to the slower rate of bioabsorbability of the outer
layer 3511, further to the above, the outer layer 3511 can buttress
or structurally reinforce the tissue within the staple line as it
heals. In certain embodiments, one of the first inner layer 3512
and the second inner layer 3513 can be comprised of a material
which can be bioabsorbed faster than the other such that, in at
least one embodiment, one of the layers can provide an initial
release of a therapeutic material and the other layer can provide a
sustained release of the same therapeutic material and/or a
different therapeutic material. In at least one such embodiment,
the rate in which a therapeutic material can be released from a
layer 3512, 3513 can be a function of the bioabsorbability of the
substrate layer in which the medicament is absorbed or dispersed.
For example, in at least one embodiment, the substrate comprising
the first inner layer 3512 can be bioabsorbed faster than the
substrate comprising the second inner layer 3513 and, as a result,
a medicament can be release from the first inner layer 3512 faster
than the second inner layer 3513, for example. In various
embodiments, as described herein, one or more of the layers 3511,
3512, and 3513 of the cartridge body 3510 can be adhered to one
another by at least one adhesive, such as fibrin and/or protein
hydrogel, for example. In certain embodiments, the adhesive can be
water soluble and can be configured to release the connection
between the layers as the staple cartridge 3500 is being implanted
and/or some time thereafter. In at least one such embodiment, the
adhesive can be configured to bioabsorb faster than the outer layer
3511, the first inner layer 3512, and/or the second inner layer
3513.
[0536] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 62 and 63, a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 3600, for example, can
comprise a cartridge body 3610 including a compressible first layer
3611, a second layer 3612 attached to the first layer 3611, and a
removable compressible layer 3613 attached to the second layer
3612. In at least one such embodiment, the first layer 3611 can be
comprised of a compressible foam material, the second layer 3612
can comprise a laminate material adhered to the first layer 3611
utilizing one or more adhesives, and the third layer 3613 can
comprise a compressible foam material removably adhered to the
second layer 3612 utilizing one or more adhesives, for example. In
various embodiments, the staple cartridge 3600 can further comprise
a plurality of staples, such as staples 3620, for example,
positioned in the cartridge body 3610. In at least one such
embodiment, each staple 3620 can comprise a base 3622 positioned in
the third layer 3613 and one or more deformable legs 3621 extending
upwardly from the base 3622 through the second layer 3612 and into
the first layer 3611, for example. In use, further to the above,
the top surface 3619 of the staple cartridge body 3610 can be
pushed downwardly by an anvil until the staple legs 3621 penetrate
through the top surface 3619 and the targeted tissue and contact
the anvil. After the staple legs 3621 have been sufficiently
deformed, the anvil can be moved away from the staple cartridge
3600 such that the compressible layers thereof can at least
partially re-expand. In various circumstances, the insertion of the
staples through the tissue can cause the tissue to bleed. In at
least one embodiment, the third layer 3613 can be comprised of an
absorbent material, such as protein hydrogel, for example, which
can draw blood away from the stapled tissue. In addition to or in
lieu of the above, the third layer 3613 can be comprised of a
hemostatic material and/or tissue sealant, such as freeze-dried
thrombin and/or fibrin, for example, which can be configured to
reduce the bleeding from the tissue. In certain embodiments, the
third layer 3613 may provide a structural support to the first
layer 3611 and the second layer 3612 wherein the third layer 3613
may be comprised of a bioabsorbable material and/or a
non-bioabsorbable material. In any event, in various embodiments,
the third layer 3613 can be detached from the second layer 3612
after the staple cartridge 3610 has been implanted. In embodiments
where the third layer 3613 comprises an implantable-quality
material, the surgeon can elect whether to remove the third layer
3613 of the cartridge body 3610. In at least one embodiment, the
third layer 3613 can be configured to be removed from the second
layer 3612 in one piece.
[0537] In various embodiments, the first layer 3611 can be
comprised of a first foam material and the third layer 3613 can be
comprised of a second foam material which can be different than the
first foam material. In at least one embodiment, the first foam
material can have a first density and the second foam material can
have a second density wherein the first density can be different
than the second density. In at least one such embodiment, the
second density can be higher than the first density wherein, as a
result, the third layer 3613 may be less compressible, or have a
lower compression rate, than the first layer 3611. In at least one
alternative embodiment, the first density can be higher than the
second density wherein, as a result, the first layer 3611 may be
less compressible, or have a lower compression rate, than the third
layer 3613. In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 64 and
65, a staple cartridge 3700, similar to the staple cartridge 3600,
can comprise a cartridge body 3710 comprising a first compressible
foam layer 3711, a second layer 3712 attached to the first layer
3711, and a detachable third compressible foam layer 3713 removably
attached to the second layer 3712. In at least one such embodiment,
the third layer 3713 can comprise a plurality of staple receiving
slots, or cut-outs, 3709 which can each be configured to receive at
least a portion of a staple 3620, such as a staple base 3622, for
example, therein. In certain embodiments, the staples 3620 can be
configured to slide within the staple receiving slots 3709 or,
stated another way, the third layer 3713 can be configured to slide
relative to the staples 3620 when the staple cartridge 3700 is
positioned against the targeted tissue and compressed by an anvil,
for example. In at least one embodiment, the receiving slots 3709
can be configured such that there is clearance between the staples
3620 and the side walls of the receiving slots 3709. In at least
one such embodiment, as a result of the above, the staples 3620 may
not capture a portion of the third layer 3713 therein when the
staples 3620 are deformed, as illustrated in FIGS. 64 and 65. In
certain other embodiments, the ends of the staple receiving slots
3709 adjacent to the second layer 3712 can be closed by a portion
of the third layer 3713 and, as a result, at least a portion of the
third layer 3713 can be captured within the staples 3620 when they
are deformed. In any event, the third layer 3713 can comprise one
or more perforations and/or score marks 3708, for example, which
can be configured to permit the third layer 3713 to be removed from
the second layer 3712 in two or more pieces as illustrated in FIG.
64. In FIG. 64, one of the pieces of the third layer 3713 is
illustrated as being removed by a tool 3755. In various
embodiments, the perforations 3708 can be arranged along a line
positioned intermediate a first row of staples and a second row of
staples.
[0538] In various embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 64 and 65,
the bases 3622 of the staples 3620 can be positioned within the
receiving slots 3709 wherein, in at least one embodiment, the side
walls of the receiving slots 3709 can be configured to contact and
releasable retain the staple legs 3621 in position. In certain
embodiments, although not illustrated, the third layer 3713 can
comprise an elongated slot surrounding all of the staples within a
staple line. In at least one such embodiment, a staple cartridge
comprising four staple rows, for example, can comprise an elongate
slot aligned with each staple row in the bottom layer of the staple
cartridge. Further to the above, at least a portion of the staple
cartridge 3600 and/or the staple cartridge 3700 can be implanted
within a patient and at least a portion of the staple cartridge can
be removable from the patient. In at least one embodiment,
referring again to FIGS. 64 and 65, the first layer 3711 and the
second layer 3712 can be captured within the staples 3620 and can
be implanted with the staples 3620, whereas the third layer 3713
can be optionally removed or detached from the staple cartridge
3700. In various circumstances, the removal of a portion of the
implanted staple cartridge can reduce the amount of material that
the patient's body has to reabsorb which can provide various
therapeutic benefits. In the event that a portion of a staple
cartridge is detached and removed, such as by a laparoscopic tool
3755, for example, the detached staple cartridge portion can be
removed from the surgical site through a trocar, such as a trocar
having a 5 mm aperture, for example. In certain embodiments, a
cartridge body can comprise more than one layer that can be
removed. For example, the cartridge body 3710 can comprise a fourth
layer wherein the third layer of 3713 of the cartridge body 3710
can be comprised of a hemostatic material and the fourth layer can
be comprised of a support layer. In at least one such embodiment, a
surgeon can remove the support layer and then elect whether to
remove the hemostatic layer, for example.
[0539] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 66, a staple
cartridge, such as staple cartridge 3800, for example, can comprise
a cartridge body 3810 including an outer layer 3811 and an inner
layer 3812. The inner layer 3812 can be comprised of a compressible
foam material and the outer layer 3811 can be at leas partially
wrapped around the inner layer 3812. In at least one embodiment,
the outer layer 3811 can comprise a first portion 3811a configured
to be positioned on a first side of the inner layer 3812 and a
second portion 3811b configured to be positioned on a second side
of the inner layer 3812 wherein the first portion 3811a and the
second portion 3811b can be connected by a flexible hinge, such as
hinge 3809, for example. In at least one such embodiment, at least
one adhesive, such as fibrin and/or protein hydrogel, for example,
can be applied to the first side and/or the second side of the
inner layer 3812 in order to secure the portions of the outer layer
3811 thereto. In various embodiments, the outer layer 3811 can
comprise one or more fastening members extending therefrom. In at
least one such embodiment, the outer layer 3811 can comprise a
plurality of deformable legs 3821 extending from one side of the
outer layer 3811 which can be seated in the compressible inner
layer 3812. In at least one such embodiment, the legs 3821 may not
protrude from the second side of the inner layer 3812 while, in at
least one alternative embodiment, the legs 3821 may at least
partially protrude from the inner layer 3812. When the compressible
cartridge body 3810 is compressed, in use, the legs 3821 can be
configured to pierce the inner layer 3812 and the second portion
3811b of the outer layer 3811. In certain embodiments, the second
portion 3811b of the outer layer 3811 can comprise apertures, such
as apertures 3808, for example defined therein which can be
configured to receive the staple legs 3821. In certain embodiments,
at least portions of the staple cartridge 3800 can comprise a knife
slot 3803 which can be configured to slidably receive a cutting
member therein. In at least one such embodiment, the knife slot
3803 may not extend entirely through the thickness of the cartridge
body 3810 and, as a result, the cutting member may incise the
cartridge body 3810 as it is moved relative thereto.
[0540] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 67, a staple
cartridge 3900 can comprise, similar to staple cartridge 3800, a
cartridge body 3910 including an inner layer 3812 and an outer
layer 3811, wherein the outer layer 3811 can comprise a first
portion 3811a positioned adjacent to the first side of the inner
layer 3812 and a second portion 3811b positioned adjacent to the
second side of the inner layer 3812. In at least one embodiment,
similar to the above, the outer layer 3811 can comprise one or more
fastening members extending therefrom. In at least one such
embodiment, the outer layer 3811 can comprise a plurality of
deformable legs 3921 extending from one side of the outer layer
3811 which can be seated in the compressible inner layer 3812. In
certain embodiments, each deformable leg 3921 can comprise at least
one hook or barb 3923 protruding therefrom which can be configured
to engage the second portion 3811b of the outer layer 3811 and, as
a result, retain the outer layer 3811 to the inner layer 3812. In
at least one such embodiment, the barbs 3923 can be configured to
protrude from the second side of the inner layer 3812 and extend
through the apertures 3808 in the second portion 3811b of the outer
layer 3811 such that the barbs 3923 can engage the outside surface
of the outer layer 3811 and lock the outer layer 3811 to the inner
layer 3812. In order to construct the staple cartridge 3900, the
inner layer 3812 may be at least partially compressed in order to
cause the barbs to protrude therefrom and enter into the apertures
3808. In at least one such embodiment, the staple cartridge 3900
can be at least partially pre-compressed when it is inserted into a
staple cartridge, for example. In certain embodiments, further to
the above, at least a portion of the legs 3921 can be embedded
within the first portion 3811a of the outer layer 3811 wherein, in
at least one embodiment, the outer layer 3811 can be comprised of a
plastic material, such as polydioxanone (PDS) and/or polyglycolic
acid (PGA), for example, and the plastic material can be overmolded
around at least a portion of the legs 3921.
[0541] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 68-72, a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 4000, for example, can
comprise a cartridge body 4010 including a compressible first layer
4011 and a second layer 4012 and, in addition, a plurality of
staples 4020 positioned within the cartridge body 4010. In certain
embodiments, referring to FIG. 70, each staple 4020 can comprise a
base 4022 and at least one deformable leg 4023 extending from the
base 4022. In at least one embodiment, referring to FIG. 68, the
staple cartridge 4000 can be positioned between a staple cartridge
channel 4030 and an anvil 4040 of an end effector of a surgical
stapler wherein the second layer 4012 of the cartridge body 4010
and/or the bases 4022 of the staples 4020 can be positioned against
the staple cartridge channel 4030. In various embodiments,
referring now to FIG. 69, the second layer 4012 can comprise a
layer of pledgets 4060 interconnected to one another by a pledget
support frame 4061. In at least one such embodiment, the pledgets
4060 and the pledget support frame 4061 can be comprised of a
molded plastic material, such as polyglycolic acid (PGA), for
example. Each pledget 4060 can comprise one or more apertures or
slots 4062 which can be configured to receive a staple leg 4021
extending therethrough as illustrated in FIGS. 70 and 71. Each
pledget 4060 can further comprise a receiving slot 4063 defined
therein which can be configured to receive a base 4022 of a staple
4020. In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 69, the
pledgets 4060 and/or pledget support fame 4061 can comprise a
plurality of score marks, perforations, or the like which can be
configured to allow the pledgets 4060 to become detached from the
pledget support frame 4061 at a desired location. Similarly,
referring to FIG. 71, one or more pledgets 4060 can be connected to
one another along a line comprising perforations and/or score marks
4064, for example. In use, the compressible foam layer 4011 can be
positioned against the targeted tissue T and the cartridge body
4010 can be compressed by the anvil 4040 such that the anvil 4040
can deform the staples 4020. When the staples 4020 are deformed,
the staple legs 4021 of each staple 4020 can capture the tissue T,
a portion of the first layer 4011, and a pledget 4060 within the
deformed staple. When the staple cartridge channel 4030 is moved
away from the implanted staple cartridge 4060, for example, the
pledget support frame 4061 can be detached from the pledgets 4060
and/or the pledgets 4060 can be detached from one another. In
certain circumstances, the pledgets 4060 can be detached from the
frame 4061 and/or each other when the staples 4020 are being
deformed by the anvil 4040 as described above.
[0542] In various embodiments described herein, the staples of a
staple cartridge can be fully formed by an anvil when the anvil is
moved into a closed position. In various other embodiments,
referring now to FIGS. 73-76, the staples of a staple cartridge,
such as staple cartridge 4100, for example, can be deformed by an
anvil when the anvil is moved into a closed position and, in
addition, by a staple driver system which moves the staples toward
the closed anvil. The staple cartridge 4100 can comprise a
compressible cartridge body 4110 which can be comprised of a foam
material, for example, and a plurality of staples 4120 at least
partially positioned within the compressible cartridge body 4110.
In various embodiments, the staple driver system can comprise a
driver holder 4160, a plurality of staple drivers 4162 positioned
within the driver holder 4160, and a staple cartridge pan 4180
which can be configured to retain the staple drivers 4162 in the
driver holder 4160. In at least one such embodiment, the staple
drivers 4162 can be positioned within one or more slots 4163 in the
driver holder 4160 wherein the sidewalls of the slots 4163 can
assist in guiding the staple drivers 4162 upwardly toward the
anvil. In various embodiments, the staples 4120 can be supported
within the slots 4163 by the staple drivers 4162 wherein, in at
least one embodiment, the staples 4120 can be entirely positioned
in the slots 4163 when the staples 4120 and the staple drivers 4162
are in their unfired positions. In certain other embodiments, at
least a portion of the staples 4120 can extend upwardly through the
open ends 4161 of slots 4163 when the staples 4120 and staple
drivers 4162 are in their unfired positions. In at least one such
embodiment, referring primarily now to FIG. 74, the bases of the
staples 4120 can be positioned within the driver holder 4160 and
the tips of the staples 4120 can be embedded within the
compressible cartridge body 4110. In certain embodiments,
approximately one-third of the height of the staples 4120 can be
positioned within the driver holder 4160 and approximately
two-thirds of the height of the staples 4120 can be positioned
within the cartridge body 4110. In at least one embodiment,
referring to FIG. 73A, the staple cartridge 4100 can further
comprise a water impermeable wrap or membrane 4111 surrounding the
cartridge body 4110 and the driver holder 4160, for example.
[0543] In use, the staple cartridge 4100 can be positioned within a
staple cartridge channel, for example, and the anvil can be moved
toward the staple cartridge 4100 into a closed position. In various
embodiments, the anvil can contact and compress the compressible
cartridge body 4110 when the anvil is moved into its closed
position. In certain embodiments, the anvil may not contact the
staples 4120 when the anvil is in its closed position. In certain
other embodiments, the anvil may contact the legs of the staples
4120 and at least partially deform the staples 4120 when the anvil
is moved into its closed position. In either event, the staple
cartridge 4100 can further comprise one or more sleds 4170 which
can be advanced longitudinally within the staple cartridge 4100
such that the sleds 4170 can sequentially engage the staple drivers
4162 and move the staple drivers 4162 and the staples 4120 toward
the anvil. In various embodiments, the sleds 4170 can slide between
the staple cartridge pan 4180 and the staple drivers 4162. In
embodiments where the closure of the anvil has started the forming
process of the staples 4120, the upward movement of the staples
4120 toward the anvil can complete the forming process and deform
the staples 4120 to their fully formed, or at least desired,
height. In embodiments where the closure of the anvil has not
deformed the staples 4120, the upward movement of the staples 4120
toward the anvil can initiate and complete the forming process and
deform the staples 4120 to their fully formed, or at least desired,
height. In various embodiments, the sleds 4170 can be advanced from
a proximal end of the staple cartridge 4100 to a distal end of the
staple cartridge 4100 such that the staples 4120 positioned in the
proximal end of the staple cartridge 4100 are fully formed before
the staples 4120 positioned in the distal end of the staple
cartridge 4100 are fully formed. In at least one embodiment,
referring to FIG. 75, the sleds 4170 can each comprise at least one
angled or inclined surface 4711 which can be configured to slide
underneath the staple drivers 4162 and lift the staple drivers 4162
as illustrated in FIG. 76.
[0544] In various embodiments, further to the above, the staples
4120 can be formed in order to capture at least a portion of the
tissue T and at least a portion of the compressible cartridge body
4110 of the staple cartridge 4100 therein. After the staples 4120
have been formed, the anvil and the staple cartridge channel 4130
of the surgical stapler can be moved away from the implanted staple
cartridge 4100. In various circumstances, the cartridge pan 4180
can be fixedly engaged with the staple cartridge channel 4130
wherein, as a result, the cartridge pan 4180 can become detached
from the compressible cartridge body 4110 as the staple cartridge
channel 4130 is pulled away from the implanted cartridge body 4110.
In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 73, the cartridge
pan 4180 can comprise opposing side walls 4181 between which the
cartridge body 4110 can be removably positioned. In at least one
such embodiment, the compressible cartridge body 4110 can be
compressed between the side walls 4181 such that the cartridge body
4110 can be removably retained therebetween during use and
releasably disengaged from the cartridge pan 4180 as the cartridge
pan 4180 is pulled away. In at least one such embodiment, the
driver holder 4160 can be connected to the cartridge pan 4180 such
that the driver holder 4160, the drivers 4162, and/or the sleds
4170 can remain in the cartridge pan 4180 when the cartridge pan
4180 is removed from the surgical site. In certain other
embodiments, the drivers 4162 can be ejected from the driver holder
4160 and left within the surgical site. In at least one such
embodiment, the drivers 4162 can be comprised of a bioabsorbable
material, such as polyglycolic acid (PGA) which is marketed under
the trade name Vicryl, polylactic acid (PLA or PLLA), polydioxanone
(PDS), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which
is marketed under the trade name Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL),
and/or a composite of PGA, PLA, PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for
example. In various embodiments, the drivers 4162 can be attached
to the staples 4120 such that the drivers 4162 are deployed with
the staples 4120. In at least one such embodiment, each driver 4162
can comprise a trough configured to receive the bases of the
staples 4120, for example, wherein, in at least one embodiment, the
troughs can be configured to receive the staple bases in a
press-fit and/or snap-fit manner.
[0545] In certain embodiments, further to the above, the driver
holder 4160 and/or the sleds 4170 can be ejected from the cartridge
pan 4180. In at least one such embodiment, the sleds 4170 can slide
between the cartridge pan 4180 and the driver holder 4160 such
that, as the sleds 4170 are advanced in order to drive the staple
drivers 4162 and staples 4120 upwardly, the sleds 4170 can move the
driver holder 4160 upwardly out of the cartridge pan 4180 as well.
In at least one such embodiment, the driver holder 4160 and/or the
sleds 4170 can be comprised of a bioabsorbable material, such as
polyglycolic acid (PGA) which is marketed under the trade name
Vicryl, polylactic acid (PLA or PLLA), polydioxanone (PDS),
polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which is
marketed under the trade name Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL),
and/or a composite of PGA, PLA, PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for
example. In various embodiments, the sleds 4170 can be integrally
formed and/or attached to a drive bar, or cutting member, which
pushes the sleds 4170 through the staple cartridge 4100. In such
embodiments, the sleds 4170 may not be ejected from the cartridge
pan 4180 and may remain with the surgical stapler while, in other
embodiments in which the sleds 4170 are not attached to the drive
bar, the sleds 4170 may be left in the surgical site. In any event,
further to the above, the compressibility of the cartridge body
4110 can allow thicker staple cartridges to be used within an end
effector of a surgical stapler as the cartridge body 4110 can
compress, or shrink, when the anvil of the stapler is closed. In
certain embodiments, as a result of the staples being at least
partially deformed upon the closure of the anvil, taller staples,
such as staples having an approximately 0.18'' staple height, for
example, could be used, wherein approximately 0.12'' of the staple
height can be positioned within the compressible layer 4110 and
wherein the compressible layer 4110 can have an uncompressed height
of approximately 0.14'', for example.
[0546] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 77-80, a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 4200, for example, can
comprise a compressible cartridge body 4210, a plurality of staples
4220 positioned therein, and a plurality of flexible lateral
support members 4234. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG.
78, the staple cartridge 4200 can be positioned intermediate an
anvil 4240 and a staple cartridge channel 4230 wherein, in at least
one embodiment, the lateral support members 4234 can be attached to
the staple cartridge channel 4230. When the anvil 4240 is moved
downwardly to compress the cartridge body 4210 and at least
partially deform the staples 4220, as illustrated in FIG. 79, the
side portions of the cartridge body 4210 can bulge laterally and
push the lateral support members 4234 outwardly. In at least one
such embodiment, the lateral support members 4234 can be attached
to the cartridge body 4210 and, when the cartridge body 4210 bulges
laterally as described above, the lateral support members 4234 can
detach from the cartridge body 4210 as illustrated in FIG. 79. In
at least one embodiment, the lateral support members 4234 can be
adhered to the cartridge body 4210 utilizing at least one adhesive,
such as fibrin and/or protein hydrogel, for example. Similar to the
above, the closing of the anvil 4240 may only partially deform the
staples 4220, wherein the formation of the staples 4220 can be
completed by the advancement of one or more sleds 4270 through the
staple cartridge 4200 as illustrated in FIG. 80. In various
embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 82 and 83, the sleds 4270 can
be advanced from a proximal end of the staple cartridge 4200 to a
distal end of the staple cartridge 4200 by a cutting member 4280.
In at least one such embodiment, the cutting member 4280 can
comprise a cutting element, or knife, 4283, which can be advanced
through the tissue T and/or the compressible cartridge body 4210.
In certain embodiments, the cutting member 4280 can comprise
camming members 4282 which can travel along the outside surfaces of
the jaws 4230 and 4240 and move or hold the jaws in position. In
various embodiments, as a result of the above, the staples 4220 can
be formed into their final shapes at the same time, or at least
substantially the same time, as the tissue T is incised. In at
least one such embodiment, the sleds 4270 can be positioned
distally with respect to the knife 4283 such that the tissue T is
only incised when the proceeding portion of the tissue has been
fully stapled, for example.
[0547] In various embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 82 and 83,
the sleds 4270 can comprise separate slidable members which are
advanced together by the cutting member 4280. In at least one such
embodiment, the sleds 4270 can be contained within the staple
cartridge 4200 and the cutting member 4280 can be advanced into the
staple cartridge 4200 by a firing bar 4281 such that the cutting
member 4280 engages the sleds 4270 and advances the sleds 4270
distally. In certain embodiments, the sleds 4270 can be connected
to one another. In either event, each sled 4270 can comprise an
angled surface, or cam, 4271 which can be configured to lift the
staples 4220 aligned within a staple row. In certain embodiments,
the angled surfaces 4271 can be integrally formed with the cutting
member 4280. In at least one embodiment, referring again to FIGS.
82 and 83, each staple 4200 can comprise a base, at least one
deformable member extending from the base, and a crown 4229
overmolded onto and/or positioned around at least a portion of the
base and/or the deformable members of the staple 4200. In various
embodiments, such crowns 4229 can be configured to be driven
directly by a sled 4270, for example. More particularly, in at
least one embodiment, the crowns 4229 of staples 4220 can be
configured such that the angled surfaces 4271 of the sleds 4270 can
slide underneath and directly contact the crowns 4229 without a
staple driver positioned therebetween. In such embodiments, each
crown 4229 can comprise at least one co-operating angled or
inclined surface which can be engaged by an angled surface 4271 of
the sleds 4270 such that the co-operating angled surfaces can drive
the staples 4220 upwardly when the sleds 4270 are slid underneath
the staples 4220.
[0548] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 81, a staple
cartridge, such as staple cartridge 4300, for example, can comprise
a compressible body 4310 and a plurality of staples 4320 positioned
within the compressible body 4310. Similar to the above, the staple
cartridge 4300 can comprise flexible lateral supports 4334 which
can be attached to a staple cartridge channel and/or adhered to the
compressible body 4310. In addition to the above, the flexible
lateral supports 4334 can be connected together by one or more
struts, or connection members, 4335 which can be configured to hold
the lateral supports 4334 together. In use, the connection members
4335 can be configured to prevent, or at least inhibit, the lateral
supports 4334 from becoming prematurely detached from the cartridge
body 4310. In certain embodiments, the connection members 4335 can
be configured to hold the lateral supports 4334 together after the
staple cartridge 4300 has been compressed by an anvil. In such
embodiments, the lateral supports 4334 can resist the lateral
bulging, or displacement, of the lateral portions of the cartridge
body 4310. In certain embodiments, a cutting member, such as
cutting member 4280, for example, can be configured to transect the
connection members 4335 as the cutting member 4280 is moved
distally within the cartridge body 4310. In at least one such
embodiment, the cutting member 4280 can be configured to push one
or more sleds, such as sleds 4270, for example, distally in order
to form the staples 4320 against an anvil. The sleds 4270 can lead
the cutting edge 4283 such that the cutting member 4280 does not
transect a connection member 4335 until the staples 4320 adjacent
to that connection member 4335 have been fully formed, or at least
formed to a desired height. In various circumstances, the
connection members 4335, in co-operation with the lateral supports
4334, can prevent, or at least reduce, the lateral movement of the
compressible cartridge body 4310 and, concurrently, prevent, or at
least reduce, the lateral movement of the staples 4320 positioned
within the cartridge body 4310. In such circumstances, the
connection members 4335 can hold the staples 4320 in position until
after they are deformed and the connection members 4335 can be
thereafter cut to release the lateral portions of the cartridge
body 4310. As mentioned above, the lateral supports 4334 can be
connected to the staple cartridge channel and, as a result, can be
removed from the surgical site with the staple cartridge channel
after the staple cartridge 4300 has been implanted. In certain
embodiments, the lateral supports 4334 can be comprised of an
implantable material and can be left within a surgical site. In at
least one embodiment, the connection members 4335 can be positioned
intermediate the cartridge body 4310 and the tissue T and, after
the connection members 4335 have been detached from the lateral
supports 4334, the connections members 4335 can remain implanted in
the patient. In at least one such embodiment, the connection
members 4335 can be comprised of an implantable material and, in
certain embodiments, the connection members 4335 can be comprised
of the same material as the lateral supports 4334, for example. In
various embodiments, the connection members 4335 and/or lateral
supports 4334 can be comprised of a flexible bioabsorbable material
such as polyglycolic acid (PGA) which is marketed under the trade
name Vicryl, polylactic acid (PLA or PLLA), polydioxanone (PDS),
polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which is
marketed under the trade name Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL),
and/or a composite of PGA, PLA, PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for
example. In various embodiments, a connection member can comprise a
sheet of material connecting the lateral supports 4334. In certain
embodiments, a staple cartridge can comprise connection members
extending across the top surface of the cartridge body 4310 and, in
addition, connection members extending around the bottom surface of
the cartridge body 4310.
[0549] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 84, a staple
cartridge can comprise staples, such as staples 4420, for example,
which can comprise a wire portion inserted into a crown portion. In
at least one embodiment, the wire portion can be comprised of
metal, such as titanium and/or stainless steel, for example, and/or
plastic, such as polydioxanone (PDS) and/or polyglycolic acid
(PGA), for example. In at least one embodiment, the crown portion
can be comprised of metal, such as titanium and/or stainless steel,
for example, and/or plastic, such as polydioxanone (PDS) and/or
polyglycolic acid (PGA), for example. In certain embodiments, the
wire portion of each staple 4420 can comprise a base 4422 and
deformable legs 4421 extending from the base 4422 wherein the crown
portion of each staple 4420 can comprise a crown 4429 which can be
configured to receive at least a portion of a base 4422 therein. In
order to assemble the portions of each staple 4420, referring now
to FIGS. 85A-85C, the legs 4421 of the wire portion can be inserted
into an opening 4426 in a crown 4429 wherein the opening 4426 can
be configured to guide the legs 4421 into a base chamber 4427. The
wire portion can be further inserted into the crown 4429 such that
the legs 4421 exit the base chamber 4427 and the base 4422 of the
wire portion enters into the base chamber 4427. In at least one
such embodiment, the base chamber 4427 can be configured such that
the wire portion is rotated within the crown 4429 as the base 4422
enters into the base chamber 4427 such that the staple legs 4421
are pointed in an upward, or at least substantially upward,
direction. In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 84, the
crown 4429 can comprise exit holes 4425 which can be configured to
receive the staple legs 4421 therein.
[0550] In various embodiments, further to the above, a surgical
stapler can comprise a sled 4470 configured to transverse the
staple cartridge 4400 and staple cartridge channel 4430 and move
the staples 4420 contained within the cartridge body 4410 toward an
anvil. In various circumstances, the sled 4470 can be moved from a
proximal end of the staple cartridge channel 4430 to a distal end
of the cartridge channel 4430 in order to implant the cartridge
body 4410 and the staples 4420. In certain circumstances, the sled
4470 can be retracted or returned to the proximal end of the
cartridge channel 4430 and another staple cartridge 4400 can be
inserted into the cartridge channel 4430. Once the new staple
cartridge 4400 has been positioned within the cartridge channel
4430, the sled 4470 can be advanced distally once again. In various
embodiments, the surgical stapler may comprise one or more lock-out
features which can prevent the sled 4470 from being advanced
distally once again without a new staple cartridge 4400 being
positioned within the cartridge channel 4430. In at least one such
embodiment, referring again to FIG. 84, the staple cartridge
channel 4430 can comprise a lock-out shoulder 4439 which can be
configured to prevent, or at least limit, the distal movement of
the sled 4470. More particularly, the sled 4470 can be configured
to abut the shoulder 4439 unless the sled 4470 is at least
partially lifted upwardly over the shoulder 4439 by a lift feature
4428, for example, extending between the proximal-most staples 4420
within a staple cartridge 4400. Stated another way, absent the
presence of the proximal-most staples 4420 in a new staple
cartridge 4400, the sled 4470 cannot be advanced. Thus, when an
expended staple cartridge 4400 is present within the cartridge
channel 4430, or no staple cartridge 4400 is present in the
cartridge channel 4430 at all, the sled 4470 cannot be advanced
within the cartridge channel 4430.
[0551] Further to the above, referring now to FIG. 86, a staple
cartridge, such as staple cartridge 4500, for example, can be
positioned within a staple cartridge channel 4530 and can comprise
a compressible cartridge body 4510, a plurality of staples 4520
positioned within the cartridge body 4510, and a cartridge pan, or
retainer, 4580. In various embodiments, the compressible cartridge
body 4510 can comprise an outer layer 4511 and an inner layer 4512
wherein, in at least one embodiment, the outer layer 4511 can
sealingly enclose the inner layer 4512. In at least one such
embodiment, the outer layer 4511 can extend between the inner layer
4512 and the cartridge pan 4580. In certain other embodiments, the
outer layer 4511 may only partially surround the inner layer 4512
and, in at least one such embodiment, the outer layer 4511 and the
cartridge pan 4580 can co-operate to encompass, or at least
substantially encompass, the inner layer 4512. In various
embodiments, further to the above, the staples 4520 can be
supported by the cartridge pan 4580 wherein the cartridge pan 4580
can comprise one or more staple support channels configured to
support the staples 4520. In certain embodiments, the cartridge pan
4580 can be attached to the cartridge body 4510 wherein, in at
least one such embodiment, the cartridge body 4510 can be
compressed laterally between opposing side walls of the cartridge
pan 4580. In various embodiments, the side walls of the cartridge
pan 4580 can support the cartridge body 4510 laterally and, in at
least one such embodiment, the cartridge pan 4580 can comprise one
or more walls, or fins, 4582 extending upwardly from the bottom
support 4583 into the cartridge body 4510. In at least one such
embodiment, the cartridge body 4510 can comprise one or more slots,
or channels, therein which can be configured to receive and/or
interlock with the walls 4582. In various embodiments, the walls
4582 can extend partially, or almost entirely, through the
cartridge body 4510. In at least one such embodiment, the walls
4582 can extend longitudinally through the staple cartridge 4500
between a first row of staples 4520 and a second row of staples
4520.
[0552] In various embodiments, the cartridge body 4510 and/or the
cartridge pan 4580 can comprise co-operating retention features
which can provide a snap-fit between the cartridge pan 4580 and the
cartridge body 4510. In certain embodiments, the staple cartridge
4500 can be positioned within the cartridge channel 4530 such that
the cartridge pan 4580 is positioned against and/or attached to the
cartridge channel 4530. In at least one embodiment, the cartridge
pan 4580 can be detachably coupled to the cartridge channel 4530
such that, after the staple cartridge 4500 has been compressed by
the anvil 4540 and the staples 4520 have been deformed, the
cartridge pan 4580 can detach from the cartridge channel 4530 and
can be implanted with the cartridge body 4510. In at least one such
embodiment, the cartridge pan 4580 can be comprised of a
bioabsorbable material such as polyglycolic acid (PGA) which is
marketed under the trade name Vicryl, polylactic acid (PLA or
PLLA), polydioxanone (PDS), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA),
poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which is marketed under the trade name
Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL), and/or a composite of PGA, PLA,
PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for example. In certain embodiments, a
surgical stapler can further comprise a firing mechanism and/or
driver which can be slid intermediate the staple cartridge channel
4530 and a bottom drive surface on the cartridge pan 4580 which can
be configured to lift or eject the cartridge pan 4580 from the
cartridge channel 4530. In certain embodiments, the cartridge body
4510 can be detachably coupled to the cartridge pan 4580 such that,
after the staple cartridge 4500 has been compressed by the anvil
4540 and the staples 4520 have been deformed, the cartridge body
4510 can detach from the cartridge pan 4580. In at least one such
embodiment, the cartridge pan 4580 can remain fixedly engaged with
the cartridge channel 4530 such that the cartridge pan 4580 is
removed from the surgical site with the cartridge channel 4530. In
certain embodiments, a surgical stapler can further comprise a
firing mechanism and/or driver which can be slid intermediate the
staple cartridge pan 4580 and a bottom drive surface on the
cartridge body 4510 which can be configured to lift or eject the
cartridge body 4510 from the cartridge pan 4580. In at least one
such embodiment, the staple cartridge 4500 can further comprise
staple drivers positioned intermediate the cartridge pan 4580 and
the staples 4520 such that, as the firing mechanism is slid
distally, the staple drivers and the staples 4520 can be driven
upwardly toward the anvil. In at least one such embodiment, the
staple drivers can be at least partially embedded within the
compressible cartridge body 4510.
[0553] In various embodiments, similar to the above, the staple
cartridge 4500 can comprise a lock-out feature which can be
configured to prevent, or at least limit, the distal movement of a
cutting member unless a unfired staple cartridge 4500 has been
positioned within the staple cartridge channel 4530. In certain
embodiments, the staple cartridge pan 4580 can comprise a surface
which lifts the cutting member upwardly and over a locking surface
within the staple cartridge channel 4530, for example. In the event
that a staple cartridge 4500 comprising a cartridge pan 4580 is not
present in the cartridge channel 4530, the cutting member cannot be
advanced. In at least one embodiment, the proximal-most staples,
and/or any other suitable staples, within a staple cartridge 4500
can comprise a lifting surface which can sufficiently lift the
cutting member over the locking surface. In addition to or in lieu
of the above, various portions of the staple cartridge 4500 can be
comprised of materials having different colors. In such
embodiments, a surgeon may be able to visually identify when an
unfired and/or fired staple cartridge is present in the staple
cartridge channel 4530. In at least one such embodiment, the outer
layer 4511 of the cartridge body 4510 may have a first color, the
cartridge pan 4580 may have a second color, and the staple
cartridge channel 4530 may have a third color. In the event that
the surgeon sees the first color, the surgeon may know that an
unfired cartridge 4500 is present in the staple cartridge channel
4530; in the event that the surgeon sees the second color, the
surgeon may know that a fired cartridge 4500 is present in the
staple cartridge channel 4530 and that the remaining cartridge pan
4580 needs to be removed; and in the event that the surgeon sees
the third color, the surgeon may know that no portion of a staple
cartridge 4500 remains within the cartridge channel 4530.
[0554] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 87, a staple
cartridge, such as staple cartridge 4600, for example, can comprise
a compressible, implantable cartridge body 4610 and a plurality of
staples 4620 positioned therein. The cartridge body 4610 can
comprise an outer layer 4611 and an inner layer 4612. In certain
embodiments, the inner layer 4612 can comprise a plurality of
pockets, such as pockets, or cavities, 4615, for example, defined
therein which can facilitate the collapse of the cartridge body
4610. In at least one such embodiment, the inner layer 4612 can
comprise a corrugated, or honeycomb-configured, lattice which can
be configured to withstand a compressive force, or pressure, as
long as the compressive force, or pressure, does not exceed a
certain threshold value. When the threshold value has not been
exceeded, the inner layer 4612 can deform at a linear, or at least
substantially linear, rate with respect to the compressive force,
or pressure, being applied. After the compressive force, or
pressure, has exceeded the threshold value, the inner layer 4612
can suddenly succumb to large deflections and collapse, or buckle,
as a result of the compressive load. In various embodiments, the
lattice of the inner layer 4612 can be comprised of a plurality of
sub-layers 4612a which can be connected together. In at least one
embodiment, each sub-layer 4612a can comprise a plurality of
alternating furrows and ridges, or waves, which can be aligned with
the alternating furrows and ridges of an adjacent sub-layer 4612a.
In at least one such embodiment, the furrows of a first sub-layer
4612a can be positioned adjacent to the ridges of a second
sub-layer 4612a and, similarly, the ridges of the first sub-layer
4612a can be positioned adjacent to the furrows of the second
sub-layer 4612a. In various embodiments, the adjacent sub-layers
4612a can be adhered to one another and/or the outer layer 4611 by
at least one adhesive, such as fibrin and/or protein hydrogel, for
example. FIG. 88 illustrates the staple cartridge 4600 after the
cartridge body 4610 has been collapsed and the staples 4620 have
been deformed in order to capture and hold tissue T against the
cartridge body 4610.
[0555] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 89-91, a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 4700, for example, can
comprise a compressible, implantable cartridge body 4710 and a
plurality of staples 4720 positioned within the cartridge body
4710. Similar to the above, the cartridge body 4710 can comprise an
outer layer 4711 and an inner layer 4712, wherein the inner layer
4712 can comprise a plurality of sub-layers 4712a. Also similar to
the above, each sub-layer 4712a can comprise alternating furrows
4717 and ridges 4718 which can be aligned with one another to
define pockets, or cavities, 4715 therebetween. In at least one
such embodiment, the furrows 4717 and/or the ridges 4718 can extend
along axes which are parallel to one another and/or parallel to a
longitudinal axis 4709. In various embodiments, the staples 4720
can be aligned in a plurality of staple rows which can extend along
axes which are parallel to one another and/or parallel to the
longitudinal axis 4709. In various alternative embodiments,
referring again to FIGS. 87 and 88, the staples 4620 contained in
the cartridge body 4600 can extend along axes which are traverse or
perpendicular with respect to the axes defined by the furrows and
ridges of the sub-layers 4612a. Referring again to FIGS. 89-91, the
staples 4720 can extend through the furrows 4717 and the ridges
4718 wherein friction forces between the staples 4720 and the
sub-layers 4712a can hold the staples 4720 within the cartridge
body 4710. In certain embodiments, the plurality of sub-layers
4712a can be comprised of a buttress material and/or plastic
material, such as polydioxanone (PDS) and/or polyglycolic acid
(PGA), for example, which can be configured to hold the staples
4720 in an upright orientation, for example, and/or hold the
staples 4720 in alignment with respect to each other as illustrated
in FIGS. 89 and 90. FIG. 91 illustrates the staple cartridge 4700
after the cartridge body 4710 has been collapsed and the staples
4720 have been deformed in order to capture and hold tissue T
against the cartridge body 4710.
[0556] In various embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 89-91, the
cartridge body 4710 can resiliently or elastically collapse when it
is compressed. In at least one such embodiment, the waves formed
within each sub-layer 4712a by the furrows 4717 and the ridges 4718
can be flattened, or at least substantially flattened, when the
cartridge body 4710 is compressed which can collapse, or at least
substantially collapse, the cavities 4715 defined therebetween. In
various circumstances, the cartridge body 4710, or at least
portions of the cartridge body 4710, can resiliently or elastically
re-expand after the compressive force, or pressure, has been
removed from the cartridge body 4710. In at least one such
embodiment, the connections between the furrows 4717 and the ridges
4718 of adjacent sub-layers 4712a can remain intact, or at least
substantially intact, when the cartridge body 4710 is compressed
such that, after the compression force has been removed from the
cartridge body 4710, the sub-layers 4712a can bias themselves away
from each other and, as a result, at least partially re-expand the
cartridge body 4710. In certain embodiments, the cartridge body
4710 can be plastically deformed, or crushed, when it is compressed
and, as a result, the cartridge body 4710 may not re-expand after
the compressive force, or pressure, has been removed from the
cartridge body 4710. In certain embodiments, referring now to FIG.
92, a staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 4800, for example,
can comprise a crushable cartridge body 4810 comprising an outer
layer 4811 and an inner layer 4812, wherein the inner layer 4812
can comprise a corrugated, honeycomb-configured, lattice having a
plurality of pockets, or cavities, 4815 defined therein. In various
embodiments, the walls defining the lattice of inner layer 4812 can
comprise one or more weakened, or thin, cross-sections 4819 which
can be configured to allow the walls defining the lattice to break
when the cartridge body 4810 is compressed. In such circumstances,
the cartridge body 4810 can be crushed when the staple cartridge
4800 is implanted.
[0557] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 93-95, a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 4900, for example, can
comprise a cartridge body 4910 comprising an outer layer 4911 and a
plurality of collapsible elements 4912 positioned intermediate top
and bottom portions of the outer layer 4911, for example. Referring
primarily to FIGS. 93 and 94, the staple cartridge 4900 can further
comprise a plurality of staples 4920, wherein each staple 4920 can
be positioned in a collapsible element 4912. More particularly,
each collapsible element 4912 can comprise a first portion 4912a, a
second portion 4012b, and a third portion 4012c which can
co-operate to define a cavity 4915 therein which is configured to
receive a staple 4920. In use, further to the above, the staple
cartridge 4900 can be positioned within a staple cartridge channel
and a compressive force can be applied to the tissue contacting
surface 4919 in order to compress the cartridge body 4910. As the
tissue contacting surface 4919 is moved downwardly, the collapsible
elements 4912 can collapse. In such circumstances, the second
portion 4912b of each collapsible element 4912 can collapse into a
corresponding first portion 4912a and, similarly, the third portion
4912c of each collapsible element 4912 can collapse into a
corresponding second portion 4912b. As the cartridge body 4910 is
compressed and the collapsible elements 4912 are collapsed, the
staples 4920 positioned within the collapsible elements 4912 can be
deformed, as illustrated in FIG. 95. In various embodiments, the
second portion 4912b of each collapsible element 4912 can be
frictionally engaged and/or press-fit within a corresponding first
portion 4912a such that, once the compressive force applied to the
collapsible element 4912 exceeds the retention force retaining the
first portion 4912a and the second portion 4912b in their extended
position (FIG. 94), the first portion 4912a and the second portion
4912b can begin to slide relative to one another. Similarly, the
third portion 4912c of each collapsible element 4912 can be
frictionally engaged and/or press-fit within a corresponding second
portion 4912b such that, once the compressive force applied to the
collapsible element 4912 exceeds the retention force retaining the
second portion 4912b and the third portion 4912c in their extended
position (FIG. 94), the second portion 4912b and the third portion
4912c can begin to slide relative to one another.
[0558] In many embodiments described herein, a staple cartridge can
comprise a plurality of staples therein. In various embodiments,
such staples can be comprised of a metal wire deformed into a
substantially U-shaped configuration having two staple legs. Other
embodiments are envisioned in which staples can comprise different
configurations such as two or more wires that have been joined
together having three or more staple legs. In various embodiments,
the wire, or wires, used to form the staples can comprise a round,
or at least substantially round, cross-section. In at least one
embodiment, the staple wires can comprise any other suitable
cross-section, such as square and/or rectangular cross-sections,
for example. In certain embodiments, the staples can be comprised
of plastic wires. In at least one embodiment, the staples can be
comprised of plastic-coated metal wires. In various embodiments, a
cartridge can comprise any suitable type of fastener in addition to
or in lieu of staples. In at least one such embodiment, such a
fastener can comprise pivotable arms which are folded when engaged
by an anvil. In certain embodiments, two-part fasteners could be
utilized. In at least one such embodiment, a staple cartridge can
comprise a plurality of first fastener portions and an anvil can
comprise a plurality of second fastener portions which are
connected to the first fastener portions when the anvil is
compressed against the staple cartridge. In certain embodiments, as
described above, a sled or driver can be advanced within a staple
cartridge in order to complete the forming process of the staples.
In certain embodiments, a sled or driver can be advanced within an
anvil in order to move one or more forming members downwardly into
engagement with the opposing staple cartridge and the staples, or
fasteners, positioned therein.
[0559] In various embodiments described herein, a staple cartridge
can comprise four rows of staples stored therein. In at least one
embodiment, the four staple rows can be arranged in two inner
staple rows and two outer staple rows. In at least one such
embodiment, an inner staple row and an outer staple row can be
positioned on a first side of a cutting member, or knife, slot
within the staple cartridge and, similarly, an inner staple row and
an outer staple row can be positioned on a second side of the
cutting member, or knife, slot. In certain embodiments, a staple
cartridge may not comprise a cutting member slot; however, such a
staple cartridge may comprise a designated portion configured to be
incised by a cutting member in lieu of a staple cartridge slot. In
various embodiments, the inner staple rows can be arranged within
the staple cartridge such that they are equally, or at least
substantially equally, spaced from the cutting member slot.
Similarly, the outer staple rows can be arranged within the staple
cartridge such that they are equally, or at least substantially
equally, spaced from the cutting member slot. In various
embodiments, a staple cartridge can comprise more than or less than
four rows of staples stored within a staple cartridge. In at least
one embodiment, a staple cartridge can comprise six rows of
staples. In at least one such embodiment, the staple cartridge can
comprise three rows of staples on a first side of a cutting member
slot and three rows of staples on a second side of the cutting
member slot. In certain embodiments, a staple cartridge may
comprise an odd number of staple rows. For example, a staple
cartridge may comprise two rows of staples on a first side of a
cutting member slot and three rows of staples on a second side of
the cutting member slot. In various embodiments, the staple rows
can comprise staples having the same, or at least substantially the
same, unformed staple height. In certain other embodiments, one or
more of the staple rows can comprise staples having a different
unformed staple height than the other staples. In at least one such
embodiment, the staples on a first side of a cutting member slot
may have a first unformed height and the staples on a second side
of a cutting member slot may have a second unformed height which is
different than the first height, for example.
[0560] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 96A-96D, an
end effector of a surgical stapler can comprise a cartridge
attachment portion, such as staple cartridge channel 5030, for
example, a fastener cartridge removably positioned in the staple
cartridge channel 5030, such as staple cartridge 5000, for example,
and a jaw 5040 positioned opposite the staple cartridge 5000 and
the staple cartridge channel 5030. The staple cartridge 5000 can
comprise a compressible body 5010 and a plurality of staples 5020,
and/or any other suitable fasteners, at least partially positioned
in the compressible body 5010. In at least one such embodiment,
each staple 5020 can comprise a base 5022 and, in addition, legs
5021 extending upwardly from the base 5022, wherein at least a
portion of the legs 5021 can be embedded in the cartridge body
5010. In various embodiments, the compressible body 5010 can
comprise a top, or tissue-contacting, surface 5019 and a bottom
surface 5018, wherein the bottom surface 5018 can be positioned
against and supported by a support surface 5031 of the staple
cartridge channel 5030. Similar to the above, the support surface
5031 can comprise a plurality of support slots 5032 (FIG. 96D), for
example, defined therein which can be configured to receive and
support the bases 5022 of the staples 5020. In various embodiments,
the end effector of the surgical stapler can further comprise a
retention matrix, such as retention matrix 5050, for example, which
can be configured to engage the staples 5020 and capture tissue
therebetween. In at least one such embodiment, the retention matrix
5050 can be removably mounted to the jaw 5040. In use, once the
staple cartridge 5000 has been positioned within the staple
cartridge channel 5030, the jaw 5040, and the retention matrix 5050
attached thereto, can be moved toward the staple cartridge 5000 and
the staple cartridge channel 5030. In at least one embodiment, the
jaw 5040 can be moved downwardly along an axis 5099 such that the
jaw 5040 and the staple cartridge channel 5030 remain parallel, or
at least substantially parallel, to one another as the jaw 5040 is
closed. More particularly, in at least one such embodiment, the jaw
5040 can be closed in a manner such that a tissue-contacting
surface 5051 of the retention matrix 5050 is parallel, or at least
substantially parallel, to the tissue-contacting surface 5019 of
the staple cartridge 5000 as the jaw 5040 is moved toward the
staple cartridge 5000.
[0561] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 96A, the
retention matrix 5050 can be detachably secured to the jaw 5040
such that there is little, if any, relative movement between the
retention matrix 5050 and the jaw 5040 when the retention matrix
5050 is attached to the jaw 5040. In at least one embodiment, the
jaw 5040 can comprise one or more retention features which can be
configured to hold the retention matrix 5050 in position. In at
least one such embodiment, the retention matrix 5050 can be
snap-fit and/or press-fit into the jaw 5040. In certain
embodiments, the retention matrix 5050 can be adhered to the jaw
5040 utilizing at least one adhesive. In any event, the jaw 5040
can be moved into a position in which the retention matrix 5050 is
in contact with the tissue T and the tissue T is positioned against
the tissue-contacting surface 5019 of the staple cartridge 5000.
When the tissue T is positioned against the staple cartridge 5000
by the jaw 5040, the compressible body 5010 of the staple cartridge
5000 may or may not be compressed by the jaw 5040. In either
circumstance, in various embodiments, the legs 5021 of the staples
5200 may not protrude through the tissue-contacting surface 5019 of
the staple cartridge 5000 as illustrated in FIG. 96A. Furthermore,
as also illustrated in FIG. 96A, the jaw 5040 can hold the tissue T
against the compressible body 5010 without engaging the retention
matrix 5050 with the staples 5020. Such embodiments can permit a
surgeon to open and close the jaw 5040 multiple times in order to
obtain a desired positioning of the end effector within a surgical
site, for example, without damaging the tissue T. Other embodiments
are envisioned, however, where the staple tips 5023 can protrude
from the tissue-contacting surface 5019 prior to the cartridge body
5010 being compressed by the anvil 5040. Once the end effector has
been suitably positioned, referring now to FIG. 96B, the jaw 5040
can be moved downwardly toward the staple cartridge channel 5030
such that the compressible body 5010 is compressed by the anvil
5040 and such that the tissue-contacting surface 5019 is pushed
downwardly relative to the staples 5020. As the tissue-contacting
surface 5019 is pushed downwardly, the tips 5023 of the staple legs
5021 can pierce the tissue-contacting surface 5019 and pierce at
least a portion of the tissue T. In such circumstances, the
retention matrix 5050 may be positioned above the staples 5020 such
that the retention apertures 5052 of retention matrix 5050 are
aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the tips 5023 of
the staple legs 5021.
[0562] As the retention matrix 5050 is pushed downwardly along the
axis 5099, referring now to FIG. 96C, the staple legs 5021 of
staples 5020 can enter into the retention apertures 5052. In
various embodiments, the staple legs 5021 can engage the side walls
of the retention apertures 5052. In certain embodiments, as
described in greater detail below, the retention matrix 5050 can
comprise one or more retention members extending into and/or around
the retention apertures 5052 which can engage the staple legs 5021.
In either event, the staple legs 5021 can be retained in the
retention apertures 5052. In various circumstances, the tips 5023
of the staple legs 5021 can enter into the retention apertures 5052
and can frictionally engage the retention members and/or the side
walls of the apertures 5052. As the retention matrix 5050 is pushed
toward the bases 5022 of the staples 5020, the staple legs 5021 can
slide relative to the side walls and/or the retention members. As a
result of the above, sliding friction forces can be created between
the staple legs 5021 and the retention matrix 5050 wherein such
sliding friction forces can resist the insertion of the retention
matrix 5050 onto the staples 5020. In various embodiments, the
sliding friction forces between the retention matrix 5050 and the
staples 5020 can be constant, or at least substantially constant,
as the retention matrix 5050 is slid downwardly along the staple
legs 5021 of the staples 5020. In certain embodiments, the sliding
friction forces may increase and/or decrease as the retention
matrix 5050 is slid downwardly along the staple legs 5021 owing to
variations in geometry of the staple legs 5021, the retention
apertures 5052, and/or the retention members extending into and/or
around the retention apertures 5052, for example. In various
embodiments, the insertion of the retention matrix 5050 onto the
staples 5020 can also be resisted by the compressible body 5010 of
the staple cartridge 5000. More particularly, the compressible body
5010 can be comprised of an elastic material, for example, which
can apply a resistive force to the retention matrix 5050 which
increases as the distance in which the compressible body 5010 is
compressed increases. In at least one such embodiment, the increase
in the resistive force generated by the cartridge body 5010 can be
linearly proportional, or at least substantially linearly
proportional, with respect to the distance in which the cartridge
body 5010 is compressed. In certain embodiments, the increase in
the resistive force generated by the cartridge body 5010 can be
geometrically proportional with respect to the distance in which
the cartridge body 5010 is compressed.
[0563] In various embodiments, further to the above, a sufficient
firing force can be applied to the jaw 5040 and the retention
matrix 5050 in order to overcome the resistive and friction forces
described above. In use, the retention matrix 5050 can be seated to
any suitable depth with respect to the staples 5020. In at least
one embodiment, the retention matrix 5050 can be seated to a depth
with respect to the bases 5022 of the staples 5020 in order to
secure two or more layers of tissue together and generate
compressive forces, or pressure, within the tissue. In various
circumstances, the system comprising the retention matrix 5050 and
the staples 5020 can allow a surgeon to select the amount of
compressive forces, or pressure, that is applied the tissue by
selecting the depth in which the retention matrix 5050 is seated.
For example, the retention matrix 5050 can be pushed downwardly
toward the staple bases 5022 of the staples 5020 until the
retention matrix 5050 is seated a certain depth 5011 away from the
bottom of the support slots 5032, wherein a shorter depth 5011 can
result in higher compressive forces, or pressure, being applied to
the tissue T than a taller depth 5011 which can result in lower
compressive forces, or pressure, being applied to the tissue T. In
various embodiments, the compressive forces, or pressures, applied
to the tissue T can be linearly proportional, or at least
substantially linearly proportional, to the depth 5011 in which the
retention matrix 5050 is seated. In various circumstances, the
compressive forces, or pressure, applied to the tissue T can depend
on the thickness of the tissue T positioned between the retention
matrix 5050 and the staple cartridge 5020. More particularly, for a
given distance 5011, the presence of thicker tissue T can result in
higher compression forces, or pressure, than the presence of
thinner tissue T.
[0564] In various circumstances, further to the above, a surgeon
can adjust the depth in which the retention matrix 5050 is seated
in order to account for thicker and/or thinner tissue positioned
within the end effector and to apply a certain or predetermined
pressure to the tissue T regardless of the tissue thickness. For
example, the surgeon can seat the retention matrix 5050 to a
shorter depth 5011 when fastening thinner tissue T or a taller
depth 5011 when fastening thicker tissue T in order to arrive at
the same, or at least substantially the same, compression pressure
within the tissue. In certain embodiments, further to the above, a
surgeon can selectively determine the amount of compressive
pressure to apply to the tissue T positioned between the retention
matrix 5050 and the staple cartridge 5010. In various
circumstances, a surgeon can engage the retention matrix 5050 with
the staples 5020 and position the retention matrix 5050 a first
distance away from the bases 5022 of the staples 5020 in order to
apply a first compressive pressure to the tissue. The surgeon can
alternatively position the retention matrix 5050 a second distance
away from the bases 5022, which is shorter than the first distance,
in order to apply a second compressive pressure to the tissue which
is greater than the first pressure. The surgeon can alternatively
position the retention matrix 5050 a third distance away from the
bases 5022, which is shorter than the second distance, in order to
apply a third compressive pressure to the tissue which is greater
than the second pressure. In various embodiments, the fastening
system comprising the retention matrix 5050 and the staples 5020
can be configured to permit a surgeon to apply a wide range of
compressive pressures to the targeted tissue.
[0565] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 96D, the
staple legs 5021 can be inserted through the retention matrix 5050
such that the staple leg tips 5023 extend above the top surface of
the retention matrix 5050. In at least one embodiment, referring
again to FIG. 96C, the jaw 5040 can further comprise clearance
apertures 5042 defined therein which can be configured to receive
the staple leg tips 5023 as they pass through the retention
apertures 5052 in the retention matrix 5050. In at least one such
embodiment, the clearance apertures 5042 can be aligned with the
retention apertures 5052 such that the legs 5021 do not contact the
jaw 5040. In various embodiments, the clearance apertures 5042 can
have a sufficient depth such that the staple legs 5021 do not
contact the jaw 5040 regardless of the distance in which the
retention matrix 5050 is seated. After the retention matrix 5050
has been engaged with the staples 5020 and seated to a desired
position, referring now to FIG. 96D, the staple cartridge channel
5030 and the jaw 5040 can be moved away from the tissue T. More
particularly, the staple cartridge channel 5030 can be detached
from the implanted staple cartridge 5000 and the anvil 5040 can be
detached from the implanted retention matrix 5050. As the jaw 5040
is moved away from the retention matrix 5050 and the staple
supports 5032 are moved away from the staple bases 5022, the
distance 5011 between the retention matrix 5050 and the bottom of
the bases 5022 can be maintained eventhough the jaw 5040 and the
staple cartridge channel 5030 are no longer providing support
thereto. In various embodiments, the static friction forces between
the staple legs 5021 and the retention matrix 5050 can be
sufficient to maintain the retention matrix 5050 in position
despite a biasing force being applied to the retention matrix 5050
by the compressed cartridge body 5010 and/or the compressed tissue
T. In at least one such embodiment, the cartridge body 5010 can be
comprised of a resilient material which, when compressed, can apply
an elastic biasing force to the retention matrix 5050 and the
staples 5020 in a manner which tends to push the retention matrix
5050 and the staples 5020 apart, although such movement is opposed
by the frictional engagement between the staple legs 5021 and the
retention matrix 5050.
[0566] In various embodiments, as described above, a retention
matrix can comprise a plurality of retention apertures, wherein
each retention aperture can be configured to receive a leg of a
fastener therein. In at least one embodiment, referring now to FIG.
97, a portion of a retention matrix 5150 is illustrated therein
which can comprise a retention aperture 5152 defined by a perimeter
5156. In various embodiments, the perimeter 5156 of the aperture
5152 can comprise a circular, or at least substantially circular,
profile and/or any other suitable profile. In certain embodiments,
the retention matrix 5150 can comprise one or more retention
members, such as retention members 5153, for example, which extend
into the aperture 5152 and can be configured to engage a fastener
leg when the fastener leg is inserted therethrough. In at least one
such embodiment, each retention member 5153 can comprise a
cantilever which extends inwardly toward a center axis 5159, i.e.,
toward the center of the aperture 5152. In various embodiments,
each cantilever can comprise a first end which is attached to the
retention matrix body 5158 and a second end which forms the
perimeter 5156 of the retention aperture 5152. In certain
embodiments, the perimeter 5156 of a retention aperture 5152 can be
defined by a first diameter, or width, and a fastener leg can be
defined by a second diameter, or width, wherein the second diameter
can be larger than the first diameter. In at least one such
embodiment, the fastener leg can be configured to contact and
deflect one or more of the retention members 5153 in order to
increase the diameter of the retention aperture 5152 as the
fastener leg is being inserted therethrough. In certain
embodiments, further to the above, the fastener leg can define a
perimeter which is larger than the perimeter 5156 of the retention
aperture 5152 such that the fastener leg can expand the perimeter
5156 when the fastener leg is inserted therein.
[0567] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 97, the
aperture 5152 can be defined by the deformable members 5153,
wherein each deformable member 5153 can be configured to deflect
relative to, or independently of, the other deformable members
5153. In at least one such embodiment, adjacent deformable members
5153 can be separated by slots 5154 which can be configured to
permit each deformable member 5153 to flex relative to the others.
In certain embodiments, each slot 5154 can comprise a first end
5155 in the retention matrix body 5158, a second end opening into
the retention aperture 5152, and a constant, or at least
substantially constant, width extending between the first end 5155
and the second end. In various other embodiments, the width of each
slot 5154 may not be constant and each slot 5154 may increase
and/or decrease in width between the first and second ends thereof.
In certain embodiments, the first ends 5155 of the slots 5154 can
comprise an enlarged portion, such as a circular portion, which can
provide, one, strain relief to the bases of the deformable members
5153 attached to the retention matrix body 5158 and, two, means for
increasing the flexibility of the deformable members 5153. In
various embodiments, the geometry of the deformable members 5153,
and/or slots 5154, can be selected so as to provide the deformable
members 5153 with a desired flexibility. In certain embodiments,
for example, the slots 5154 can be lengthened in order to create
longer deformable members 5153 which can be more flexible than
deformable members 5153 having a shorter length. In at least one
embodiment, the width of each deformable member 5153 can be
selected so as to provide a desired flexibility thereof. More
particularly, deformable members having a thinner width can be more
flexible than deformable members having a thicker width. In certain
embodiments, referring again to FIG. 97, the first ends of the
cantilevers of deformable members 5153 attached to the retention
matrix body 5158 can be wider than the second ends of the
cantilevers. In at least one such embodiment, the cantilevers can
be tapered in a linear, or at least substantially linear, manner
between the first and second ends thereof.
[0568] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 97, the
retention matrix body 5158 can comprise a flat, or at least
substantially flat, sheet of material having a tissue-contacting
surface 5151 and a top surface 5157. In at least one such
embodiment, the tissue-contacting surface 5151 and the top surface
5157 can be parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to one
another. In various embodiments, each deformable member 5153 can
comprise a first portion 5153a and a second portion 5153b, wherein
the first portion 5153a can extend in a first direction and the
second portion 5153b can extend in a different, or second,
direction. In at least one such embodiment, the retention matrix
body 5158 can define a plane and the first portions 5153a of the
deformable members 5153 can lie within such a plane. In various
embodiments, the second portions 5153b of the deformable members
5153 can extend at an angle relative to the first portions 5153a.
In at least one such embodiment, the second portions 5153b can
extend in directions which are pointed away from the top surface
5157 of the retention matrix body 5158 and, in certain embodiments,
the second portions 5153b can converge toward the central axis 5159
of the retention aperture 5152. In any event, in various
embodiments, the second portions 5153b can be configured to deflect
away from the central axis 5159 when the fastener leg is inserted
therethrough. In embodiments where a staple leg 5021 of a staple
5020 is inserted into a retention aperture 5152, the deformable
members 5153 can deform in a direction which is generally away from
the bases 5122 of the staples 5120. In certain embodiments, as a
result, the deformable members 5153 can deflect in a general
direction which is the same as, or at least substantially the same
as, the direction in which the staple legs 5021 are being
inserted.
[0569] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 97, the
second portions 5153b of the deformable members 5153 can each
comprise a sharp tip, for example, which can be configured to slide
against a staple leg 5021 as the staple leg 5021 is inserted
therein. The sharp tips of the second portions 5153b can also be
configured to bite into the staple leg 5021 in the event that the
staple leg 5021 were to be pulled in the opposite direction, i.e.,
in a direction which would remove the staple leg 5021 from the
retention aperture 5052. In certain circumstances, the second
portions 5153b can be inclined at an angle relative to the side of
the staple leg 5021 which is greater than 90 degrees and, as a
result, the second portions 5153b may dig, or burrow, into the side
of the staple leg 5021 when the staple leg 5021 experiences a force
which tends to withdraw the staple leg 5021 from the retention
aperture 5052. In certain embodiments, the staple legs 5021 can
comprise indentations and/or concavities, such as
microindentations, for example, in the surfaces thereof which can
be configured to receive the tips of the deformable members 5053,
for example, therein. In at least one such embodiment, the tips of
the deformable members 5053 can catch in and burrow into the
indentations in the staple legs 5021 when a withdrawing force is
applied to the staple legs 5021. In various embodiments, as a
result of the burrowing of the second portions 5153b into the
staple legs 5021, forces acting to remove the staple legs 5021 from
the retention apertures 5022 may only seat the second portions
5153b deeper into the staple legs 5021 and increase the force
required to remove the staple legs 5021. Furthermore, owing to the
upward inclination of the second portions 5153b, in at least one
embodiment, the second portions 5153b can be more permissive to the
insertion of a staple leg 5021 within a retention aperture 5152 and
more resistive to withdrawal of the staple leg 5021. In at least
one embodiment, as a result, the force required to insert a staple
leg 5021 into a retention aperture 5022 may be less than the force
required to remove the staple leg 5021 from the retention aperture
5022. In various embodiments, the force needed to remove the staple
leg 5021 from the retention aperture 5022 can be approximately 50
percent greater than the force needed to insert the staple leg 5021
into the retention aperture 5022, for example. In various other
embodiments, the force needed to remove the staple leg 5021 may
between approximately 10 percent and approximately 100 percent
greater than the force needed to insert the staple leg 5021, for
example. In certain embodiments, the force needed to remove the
staple leg 5021 may be approximately 100 percent, approximately 150
percent, approximately 200 percent, and/or greater than
approximately 200 percent larger than the force needed to insert
the staple leg 5021, for example.
[0570] In certain embodiments, referring again to FIG. 97, the
second portions 5153b can be arranged circumferentially around the
aperture 5152 and can define a pocket therebetween. More
particularly, the second portions 5153b can define a pocket 5160
which can be configured to receive the tip of the fastener leg when
it is inserted into the retention aperture 5152. In various
embodiments, the second portions 5153b of the deformable members
5153 can comprise an annular, or an at least substantially annular,
contour which can co-operatively define an annular, or at least
substantially annular, profile of the pocket 1560, for example. In
at least one such embodiment, the second portions 5153b can define
a conical or frustoconical pocket. In various embodiments, the
pocket can be defined by a suitable number of deformable members,
such as four deformable members 5153 (FIG. 97), six deformable
members 5153 (FIG. 98), or eight deformable members 5153 (FIG. 99),
for example. In certain embodiments, referring now to FIG. 100, the
deformable members of a retention matrix, such as retention matrix
5250, for example, can form a pyramidal shape, or an at least
substantially pyramidal shape, for example. In various embodiments,
a retention matrix 5250 can comprise a plurality of retention
apertures, such as retention aperture 5252, for example, which can
be defined by a perimeter 5256. In various embodiments, the
perimeter 5256 can comprise a polygonal, or at least substantially
polygonal, profile and/or any other suitable profile. In certain
embodiments, the retention matrix 5250 can comprise one or more
retention members, such as retention members 5253, for example,
which extend into the aperture 5252 and can be configured to engage
a fastener leg when the fastener leg is inserted therethrough. In
at least one such embodiment, each retention member 5253 can
comprise a cantilever which extends inwardly toward a center axis
5259, i.e., toward the center of the aperture 5252. In various
embodiments, each cantilever can comprise a first end which is
attached to the retention matrix body 5258 and a second end which
forms the perimeter 5256 of the retention aperture 5252. In certain
embodiments, the perimeter 5256 of a retention aperture 5252 can be
defined by a first diameter, or width, and a fastener leg can be
defined by a second diameter, or width, wherein the second diameter
can be larger than the first diameter. In at least one such
embodiment, the fastener leg can be configured to contact and
deflect one or more of the retention members 5253 in order to
increase the diameter of the retention aperture 5252 as the
fastener leg is being inserted therethrough. In certain
embodiments, further to the above, the fastener leg can define a
perimeter which is larger than the perimeter 5256 of the retention
aperture 5252 such that the fastener leg can expand the perimeter
5256 when the fastener leg is inserted therein.
[0571] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 100, the
aperture 5252 can be defined by the deformable members 5253,
wherein each deformable member 5253 can be configured to deflect
relative to, or independently of, the other deformable members
5253. In at least one such embodiment, adjacent deformable members
5253 can be separated by slots 5254 which can be configured to
permit each deformable member 5253 to flex relative to the others.
In various embodiments, the retention matrix body 5258 can comprise
a flat, or at least substantially flat, sheet of material having a
tissue-contacting surface 5251 and a top surface 5257. In at least
one such embodiment, the tissue-contacting surface 5251 and the top
surface 5257 can be parallel, or at least substantially parallel,
to one another. In various embodiments, each deformable member 5253
can comprise a first portion 5253a and a second portion 5253b,
wherein the first portion 5253a can extend in a first direction and
the second portion 5253b can extend in a different, or second,
direction. In at least one such embodiment, the retention matrix
body 5258 can define a plane and the first portions 5253a of the
deformable members 5253 can lie within such a plane. In various
embodiments, the second portions 5253b of the deformable members
5253 can extend at an angle relative to the first portions 5253a.
In at least one such embodiment, the second portions 5253b can
extend in directions which are pointed away from the top surface
5257 of the retention matrix body 5258 and, in certain embodiments,
the second portions 5253b can converge toward the central axis 5259
of the retention aperture 5252. In any event, in various
embodiments, the second portions 5253b can be configured to deflect
away from the central axis 5259 when the fastener leg is inserted
therethrough. In certain embodiments, referring again to FIG. 100,
the second portions 5253b can be arranged circumferentially around
the aperture 5252 and can define a pocket therebetween. More
particularly, the second portions 5253b can define a pocket which
can be configured to receive the tip of the fastener leg when it is
inserted into the retention aperture 5252. In various embodiments,
the second portions 5253b of the deformable members 5253 can define
a polygonal, or an at least substantially polygonal, pocket, for
example. In various embodiments, the pocket can be defined by a
suitable number of deformable members, such as four deformable
members 5253 (FIG. 100) which can define a square, six deformable
members 5253 (FIG. 101) which can define a hexagon, or eight
deformable members 5253 (FIG. 102) which can define an octagon, for
example.
[0572] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 103, a
retention matrix, such as retention matrix 5350, for example, can
be formed from a flat, or an at least substantially flat, sheet of
material such as titanium and/or stainless steel, for example. In
at least one such embodiment, a plurality of apertures 5352 can be
formed in the body 5358 of the retention matrix 5350 by one or more
stamping processes. The sheet of material can be positioned in a
stamping die which, when actuated, can punch out certain portions
of the material in order to form slots 5354, apertures 5355 of
slots 5354, and/or the perimeter 5356 of the retention aperture
5352, for example. The stamping die can also be configured to bend
the deformable members 5353 in a suitable configuration. In at
least one such embodiment, the stamping die can deform the second
portions 5353b upwardly relative to the first portions 5353a along
a crease line 5353c. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG.
104, a retention matrix, such as retention matrix 5450, for
example, can comprise a plurality of retention apertures 5452.
Similar to the above, the perimeter 5456 of each retention aperture
5452 can be defined by a plurality of deformable members 5453
separated by slots, or slits, 5454. In at least one such
embodiment, the entirety of each deformable member 5453 can be bent
upwardly wherein the free ends of the cantilevers comprising the
deformable members 5453 can define the perimeter 5456. In various
embodiments, the retention matrix 5450 can comprise a plurality of
apertures 5455 surrounding, or at least substantially surrounding,
the retention aperture 5452. In at least one such embodiment, the
apertures 5455 can be arranged in a circular array surrounding or
enclosing a perimeter defined by the fixed ends of the cantilevers
of the deformable members 5453. In certain embodiments, each
aperture 5455 can comprise a circular, or at least substantially
circular, perimeter and/or any other suitable perimeter. In use,
the apertures 5455 can provide, one, strain relief to the bases of
the deformable members 5453 attached to the retention matrix body
5458 and, two, means for increasing the flexibility of the
deformable members 5453. In various embodiments, larger apertures
5455 can provide more flexibility to the deformable members 5453 as
compared to smaller apertures 5455. Furthermore, apertures 5455
which are closer to the deformable members 5453 can provide more
flexibility as compared to apertures 5455 which are further
away.
[0573] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 105, a
retention matrix, such as retention matrix 5550, for example, can
comprise a plurality of retention apertures 5552. Each retention
aperture 5552 can comprise an elongate slot 5554 having enlarged
circular, or at least substantially circular, ends 5555. In at
least one such embodiment, the ends 5555 can be defined by a
diameter which is wider than the slot 5554. In certain embodiments,
the elongate slot 5554 and the ends 5555 can positioned along,
and/or centered along, a longitudinal axis 5559. In various
embodiments, the slot 5554 and the ends 5555 can define two
opposing tabs 5553 which can be configured to engage a leg of a
fastener and deflect as the fastener leg is inserted therethrough.
In at least one embodiment, ends 5555 having a larger perimeter, or
diameter, can define longer tabs 5553 which can be more flexible
than tabs 5553 defined by ends 5555 having a smaller perimeter, or
diameter. In various embodiments, the ends 5555 can have the same
perimeter and diameter and, in at least one such embodiment, each
tab 5553 can be symmetrical about an axis which is perpendicular,
or at least substantially perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis
5559. Alternatively, the ends 5555 can have different perimeters
and/or diameters wherein, in at least one embodiment, each tab 5553
may not be symmetrical about its axis. In at least one such
alternative embodiment, the tabs 5553 may twist about their axes as
the fastener leg is inserted through the retention aperture 5552.
In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 106, a retention
matrix, such as retention matrix 5650, for example, can comprise a
plurality of retention apertures 5652. Each retention aperture 5652
can comprise an elongate slot 5654 comprising circular, or at least
substantially circular, ends 5655. In at least one such embodiment,
the elongate slot 5654 and the ends 5655 can be positioned along,
and/or centered along, a longitudinal axis 5659. In various
embodiments, each end 5655 can be defined by a diameter which is
the same as, or at least substantially the same as, the width of
the slot 5654.
[0574] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 107, a
retention matrix, such as retention matrix 5750, for example, can
comprise a plurality of retention apertures 5752. Each retention
aperture 5752 can comprise a plurality of slots, such as slots
5754, for example, having enlarged ends 5755. In at least one such
embodiment, the slots 5754 and the ends 5755 can be positioned
along and/or centered along longitudinal axes 5759. In various
embodiments, the axes 5759 can extend in directions which are
perpendicular or transverse to one another. In certain embodiments,
the slots 5754 and the ends 5755 can define four tabs 5753, for
example, which can be configured to engage a fastener leg and
deflect when the fastener leg is inserted through the retention
aperture 5752. In at least one embodiment, each tab 5753 can
comprise a triangular, or at least substantially triangular,
configuration, such as an equilateral triangle, for example. In
various other embodiments, referring now to FIG. 108, a retention
matrix, such as retention matrix 5850, for example, can comprise a
plurality of retention apertures 5852. Each retention aperture 5852
can comprise a plurality of slots, such as slots 5854, for example,
having ends 5855, wherein the slots 5854 and the ends 5855 can be
positioned along and/or centered along longitudinal axes 5859. In
various embodiments, the axes 5859 can extend in directions which
are perpendicular or transverse to one another. In certain
embodiments, the slots 5854 and the ends 5855 can define tabs 5853
which can be configured to engage a fastener leg and deflect when
the fastener leg is inserted through the retention aperture 5852.
In at least one embodiment, each tab 5853 can comprise an arcuate
profile. More particularly, each tab 5853 can comprise a curved
end, as opposed to a pointed end depicted in FIG. 105, which can be
configured to contact the fastener leg.
[0575] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 109, a
retention matrix, such as retention matrix 5950, for example, can
comprise a plurality of retention apertures 5952. Each retention
aperture 5952 can comprise a plurality of slots, such as slots
5954, for example, wherein each slot 5954 can extend along, and/or
can be centered along, an axis 5959. In various embodiments, the
axes 5959 can be transverse to each other and, in at least one such
embodiment, the axes 5959 can be arranged such that all of the axes
5959 extend through a center of the retention aperture 5952 and are
spaced equidistantly, or at least substantially equidistantly, from
each other. In at least one embodiment, each slot 5954 can comprise
an open end facing the center of the retention aperture 5952 and a
second, or closed, end 5955 at the opposite end of the slot 5954.
Similar to the above, the slots 5954 and the ends 5955 can define
three tabs 5953, for example, which can be configured to engage a
fastener leg and deflect when the fastener leg is inserted into the
retention aperture 5952. In various embodiments, each tab 5953 can
comprise an arcuate configuration extending between adjacent ends
5955 of the slots 5954. In various embodiments, referring now to
FIG. 110, a retention matrix, such as retention matrix 6050, for
example, can comprise a plurality of retention apertures 6052. Each
retention aperture 6052 can comprise a tab 6053 which can be
configured to engage a fastener leg and to deflect when the
fastener leg is inserted into the retention aperture 6052. In at
least one such embodiment, the tab 6053 can comprise a base fixed
to the retention matrix body 6058 and a free end comprising an
arcuate or curved profile 6056 which can be configured to contact
the fastener leg. In certain embodiments, the fastener leg can be a
staple leg comprised of a round wire wherein the curved profile
6056 can be configured to match, or at least substantially match, a
curved outer surface of the round wire.
[0576] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 110, the
retention matrix body 6058 can comprise a plurality of slots 6054
and apertures 6055 which can be configured to define the tab 6053
and various portions of the retention aperture 6052. In at least
one embodiment, the tab 6053 can comprise a rectangular
configuration comprising parallel, or at least substantially
parallel, sides. In certain embodiments, referring now to FIG. 111,
a retention matrix, such as retention matrix 6150, for example, can
comprise a plurality of retention apertures 6152. Each retention
aperture 6152 can comprise a tab 6153 which can be configured to
engage a fastener leg and to deflect when the fastener leg is
inserted into the retention aperture 6152. In at least one such
embodiment, the tab 6153 can comprise a base fixed to the retention
matrix body 6158 and a free end comprising an arcuate or curved
profile 6156 which can be configured to contact the fastener leg.
In various embodiments, the retention matrix body 6158 can comprise
a plurality of slots 6154 and apertures 6155 which can be
configured to define the tab 6153 and various portions of the
retention aperture 6152. In at least one embodiment, the tab 6153
can comprise a tapered configuration comprising arcuate sides. In
at least one such embodiment, the tab 6153 can taper geometrically
with the base being wider than the free end, for example.
[0577] In various embodiments, as described above, a fastening
system can comprise a plurality of staples comprising staple legs
which are inserted through a plurality of retention apertures in a
retention matrix. In certain embodiments, as described in greater
detail below, the staples can be held in a first jaw and the
retention matrix can be held in a second jaw, wherein at least one
of the first jaw and the second jaw can be moved toward the other.
In various circumstances, the staples positioned within the first
jaw can be secured therein such that the staple legs are aligned
with the retention apertures when the retention matrix is engaged
with the staple legs. In certain embodiments, referring to FIGS.
112 and 113, a fastener system can comprise a staple cartridge
6200, for example, positioned in a first jaw of a surgical stapler
and a retention matrix 6250, for example, positioned in a second
jaw of the surgical stapler. Referring now to FIGS. 119 and 120,
further to the above, the retention matrix 6250 can comprise a
plurality of retention apertures 6252, wherein each retention
aperture 6252 can comprise a perimeter 6256 defined by one or more
deflectable members 6253. In at least one such embodiment, further
to the above, the deflectable members 6253 defining each aperture
6252 can define a pocket 6201. In various embodiments, each pocket
6201 can comprise a curved and/or concave surface, for example,
which can be configured to guide a tip of a staple leg into the
aperture 6252 in the event that the staple leg is misaligned with
the retention aperture 6252 and initially contacts the deflectable
members 6253 and/or the tissue-contacting surface 6251, for
example.
[0578] In various embodiments, further to the above, the fastening
system can further comprise a plurality of staples 6220 comprising
staple legs 6221 which can be inserted through the retention
apertures 6252 in the retention matrix 6250. In at least one such
embodiment, each staple 6220 can comprise a substantially U-shaped
configuration, for example, comprising a base 6222 from which the
staple legs 6221 can extend upwardly. In various embodiments,
referring now to FIGS. 115 and 116, the retention apertures 6252 in
the retention matrix 6250 can be arranged in two parallel, or at
least substantially parallel, longitudinal rows, for example, which
can extend along, or parallel to, a longitudinal axis of the
retention matrix. In certain embodiments, the retention apertures
6252 in a first row can be offset, or staggered, with respect to
the retention apertures 6252 in a second row. In at least one such
embodiment, each staple 6220 can comprise a first staple leg 6221
positioned in a retention aperture 6252 in the first row of and a
second staple leg 6221 positioned in a retention aperture 6252 in
the second row wherein, as a result, the bases 6222 can extend in a
direction which is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the
retention matrix 6250. In at least one such embodiment, the staples
6220 can be parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to one
another. More particularly, a base 6222a of a staple 6220a be
parallel to, or at least substantially parallel to, a base 6222b of
a staple 6220b which can be parallel to, or at least substantially
parallel to, a base 6222c of a staple 6220c, for example. In at
least one embodiment, the staple legs 6221a of staple 6220a can
define a plane which is parallel to, or at least substantially
parallel to, a plane defined by the staple legs 6221b of staple
6220b which can be parallel to, or at least substantially parallel
to, a plane defined by the staple legs 6221 of staple 6220c, for
example.
[0579] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 112 and 114,
the staple cartridge 6200 can comprise a plurality of staples 6220
and, in addition, an alignment matrix 6260 comprising a plurality
of alignment guides, such as slots, grooves, and/or apertures, for
example, which can be configured to align the staples 6220. In
various circumstances, the alignment matrix 6260 can be configured
such that the staple legs 6221 of the staples 6220 are aligned with
the retention apertures 6252 in the retention matrix 6250 before
the retention matrix 6250 is engaged with the staple legs 6221. In
various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 117 and 118, the
alignment matrix 6260 can comprise a plurality of alignment
apertures 6262 which can be configured to closely receive the
staple legs 6221 of the staples 6220. In at least one such
embodiment, each staple 6220 can comprise a base 6222 and two
staple legs 6221 extending from the base 6222 wherein the bases
6222 of the staples 6220 can extend around a bottom surface 6264 of
the retention matrix 6260 and the staple legs 6221 can extend
upwardly through the alignment apertures 6262. In certain
embodiments, each alignment aperture 6262 can be circular, or at
least substantially circular, and can be defined by a diameter
which is equal to or slightly larger than the diameter of the
staple leg 6221 extending therethrough. In various embodiments, the
alignment matrix 6260 can further comprise a plurality of raised
members 6263 which can extend upwardly from the top surface 6261 of
the alignment matrix 6260 and surround, or at least partially
surround, the alignment apertures 6262. In certain embodiments, the
raised members 6263 can provide for longer alignment apertures 6262
wherein, in various circumstances, longer apertures 6262 can
provide more control over the alignment of the staple legs 6221
than shorter apertures 6262.
[0580] In use, in various embodiments, a first jaw supporting the
staple cartridge 6200 can be positioned on one side of the tissue
that is to be stapled and a second jaw supporting the retention
matrix 6250 can be positioned on the other side of the tissue. Once
the jaws have been suitably positioned relative to the tissue, in
certain embodiments, the second jaw and the retention matrix 6250
can be moved toward the staple cartridge 6200. As the staple legs
6221 are being inserted through the retention apertures 6252 of the
retention matrix 6250, in various embodiments, a tissue-contacting,
or bottom, surface 6251 of the retention matrix 6250 can contact
the tissue and press the tissue against the tissue-contacting, or
top, surface 6261 of the alignment matrix 6260. In various other
embodiments, as described in greater detail further below, the
staple cartridge 6200 can further comprise a compressible cartridge
body positioned above the top surface 6261 of the alignment matrix
6260, for example, which can contact the tissue. In certain
embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 114 and 118, the alignment
matrix 6260 can further comprise one or more apertures 6203 defined
therein which, when the alignment matrix 6260 is positioned against
tissue, can be configured to receive a portion of the tissue
therein. In embodiments where a compressible cartridge body is
positioned above and/or against the alignment matrix 6260, a
portion of the compressible cartridge body can enter into the
apertures 6203 when the cartridge body is compressed. Similarly,
the retention matrix 6250 can comprise a plurality of apertures
6202 which can be configured to receive at least a portion of the
tissue therein when the retention matrix 6250 is positioned against
the tissue.
[0581] As the staple legs 6221 of the staples 6220 are inserted
through the retention apertures 6252 of the retention matrix 6250,
further to the above, the tips of the staple legs 6221 may protrude
upwardly from the top surface 6257 of the retention matrix 6250. In
various circumstances, as described above, the tips of the staple
legs 6221 may remain unbent after they have been inserted through
the retention apertures 6252. In certain embodiments, referring now
to FIGS. 121-124, a fastening system comprising the staple
cartridge 6200 and the retention matrix 6250 may further comprise a
plurality of protective caps or covers, such as caps 6270, for
example, which can be assembled to the staple legs 6221 protruding
above the retention matrix 6250. In various embodiments, each cap
6270 can entirely, or at least partially, cover the sharp end of a
staple leg 6221 such that the sharp end does not contact tissue
positioned adjacent thereto. In at least one embodiment, referring
now to FIG. 124, each cap 6270 can comprise an aperture 6271
defined therein which can be configured to closely receive a tip of
a staple leg 6221 therein. In various embodiments, the caps 6270
can be comprised of an elastomeric material, such as silicone,
polyisoprene, sanoprene, and/or natural rubber, for example. In at
least one embodiment, the aperture 6271 can comprise a perimeter or
diameter which is smaller than the perimeter or diameter of the
staple leg 6221 inserted therein. In at least one such embodiment,
the aperture 6271 in the protective cap 6270 can expand in order to
receive the staple leg 6221 therein. In various alternative
embodiments, the caps 6270 may not comprise apertures and the tips
of the staple legs 6221 can be configured to incise the caps 6270
as the legs 6221 are inserted therein. In any event, in various
embodiments, each cap 6270 can be seated onto a staple leg 6221
until the base 6272 of the cap 6270 abuts, or is positioned
adjacent to, the top surface 6257 of the retention matrix 6250. In
various circumstances, the caps 6270 can be configured such that
they are seated snugly onto the tips of the staple legs 6221 such
that they are not easily removed therefrom. In certain embodiments,
each cap 6270 can comprise a conical, or at least substantially
conical, outer surface, for example. In various embodiments, the
caps 6270 can comprise any suitable shape, such as shapes
comprising a parabolic, or at least substantially parabolic, outer
surface, for example.
[0582] In various embodiments, the fastener system described above,
for example, could be deployed using the surgical stapler depicted
in FIGS. 125-127, for example. In various embodiments, the end
effector can comprise a first jaw, or staple cartridge channel,
6230 which can be configured to support the staple cartridge 6200
therein and a second jaw 6240 which can be configured to support
the retention matrix 6250 and the plurality of protective caps
6270. Referring primarily to FIG. 125, which illustrates the second
jaw 6240 in an open configuration, the jaws 6230 and 6240 can be
positioned relative to tissue T such that the tissue T is
positioned intermediate the retention matrix 6250 and the staple
cartridge 6200. In various embodiments, as discussed above, the
staple cartridge 6200 can further comprise a compressible cartridge
body, such as cartridge body 6210, for example, in which the
staples 6220 and the alignment matrix 6260 can be positioned. In at
least one such embodiment, the tissue T can be positioned against a
top surface of the cartridge body 6210. In certain embodiments, the
second jaw 6240 can comprise a plurality of recesses, or apertures,
6245 configured to receive the plurality of protective caps 6270
and, in addition, one or more retention features, or retainers,
which can be configured to hold the retention matrix 6250 in
position over the caps 6270. In at least one such embodiment, the
retention matrix 6250 can be configured to retain the caps 6270 in
the apertures 6245. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG.
137, each aperture 6245 can be configured to receive a portion of,
or the entirety of, a cap 6270 therein. In certain embodiments, the
apertures 6245 can be sufficiently sized and configured such that
the caps 6270 can be secured therein by at least one of a press-fit
and/or snap fit arrangement, for example. In some embodiments, at
least one adhesive could be utilized to secure the caps 6270 in the
apertures 6245. In at least one such embodiment, such an adhesive
could be selected such that caps 6270 can detach from the second
jaw 6240 after the caps 6270 have been engaged with the staple legs
6221 and the second jaw 6240 is moved away from the implanted
fastener assembly. In certain embodiments, referring now to FIG.
138, the second jaw 6240 can further comprise at least one cover
sheet 6246 which can be assembled to the second jaw 6240 and can
extend over and retain the caps 6270 in the apertures 6245. In at
least one such embodiment, at least a portion of the cover sheet
6246 can be secured to the jaw 6240 utilizing at least one
adhesive, for example. In use, in at least one embodiment, the
cover sheet 6246 can be at least partially detached from the jaw
6240 before the end effector is inserted into a surgical site. In
certain embodiments, the cover sheet 6246 can be comprised of an
implantable material, such as PDS and/or PGA, for example, which
can be incised by the staple legs 6221 as the staple legs 6221
emerge from the retention matrix 6250. In at least one such
embodiment, the cover sheet 6246 can be secured in the fastening
system intermediate the covers 6270 and the retention matrix
6250.
[0583] Further to the above, referring now to FIG. 126, the jaw
6240 can be moved from an open position to a closed position in
which the tissue T is positioned against the retention matrix 6250
and the cartridge body 6210. In such a position, the retention
matrix 6250 may not yet be engaged with the staples 6220. In
various embodiments, the jaw 6240 can be moved between its open
position and its closed position by an actuator 6235. In at least
one such embodiment, the jaw 6240 can comprise a distal pin 6243
and a proximal pin 6244 extending therefrom, wherein the distal pin
6243 can slide vertically, or at least substantially vertically,
within a distal slot 6233 defined in the cartridge channel 6230,
and wherein the proximal pin 6244 can slide vertically, or at least
substantially vertically, within a proximal slot 6234 which is also
defined in the staple cartridge channel 6230. In use, the actuator
6235 can be retracted proximally in order to drive the pins 6243
and 6244 into the upper ends of their respective slots 6233 and
6234 as illustrated in FIG. 126. In at least one such embodiment,
the actuator 6235 can comprise a distal drive slot 6236 and a
proximal drive slot 6237, wherein the sidewalls of the drive slots
6236 and 6237 can be configured to contact the distal pin 6243 and
the proximal pin 6244, respectively, and drive the pins 6243 and
6244 upwardly as the actuator 6235 is moved proximally. More
particularly, as the actuator 6235 is moved proximally, the distal
pin 6243 can slide up an inclined first portion 6236a of the distal
drive slot 6236 into an intermediate, or second, portion 6236b and,
similarly, the proximal pin 6244 can slide up an inclined first
portion 6237a of the distal drive slot 6237 into an intermediate,
or second, portion 6237b. As the pins 6243 and 6244 are both moved
upwardly, the jaw 6240 can be rotated downwardly toward the tissue
T into a closed position.
[0584] Further to the above, referring now to FIG. 127, the
actuator 6235 can be pulled further proximally in order to push the
second jaw 6240 downwardly toward the first jaw 6230, compress the
cartridge body 6210, and engage the retention matrix 6250 and the
plurality of protective caps 6270 with the staple legs of the
staples 6220. In at least one such embodiment, the additional
proximal movement of the actuator 6235 can cause the sidewalls of
the drive slots 6236 and 6237 to contact the pins 6243 and 6244,
respectively, and drive the pins 6243 and 6244 downwardly toward
the bottom ends of the slots 6233 and 6234, respectively. In such
circumstances, the actuator 6235 can be pulled proximally such
that, one, the distal pin 6243 exits the second portion 6236b of
the drive slot 6236 and enters into an inclined third portion 6236c
and, similarly, the proximal pin 6244 exits the second portion
6237b of the drive slot 6237 and enters into an inclined third
portion 6237c. As the pins 6243 and 6244 are both moved downwardly,
the second jaw 6240 can move downwardly toward the first jaw 6230
into a fired position. In at least one such embodiment, the second
jaw 6240 can be moved downwardly such that the retention matrix
6250 remains parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the
top surface of the cartridge body 6210 and/or parallel, or at least
substantially parallel, to the alignment matrix 6260. In any event,
once the retention matrix 6250 and the protective caps 6270 have
been engaged with the staple legs 6221 of the staples 6220, as
illustrated in FIG. 129, the second jaw 6240 can be returned to an
open, or an at least substantially open, position. In at least one
such embodiment, the actuator 6235 can be pushed distally in order
to drive the pins 6243 and 6244 to the top ends of the slots 6233
and 6234, respectively, and then driven downwardly toward the
bottom ends of the slots 6233 and 6234 once the pins have passed
through the intermediate portions 6236b and 6237b of the respective
drive slots 6236 and 6237. Once the second jaw 6240 has been
opened, the first jaw 6230 can be detached from the implanted
staple cartridge 6200 and the first and second jaws 6230, 6240 can
be removed away from the implanted fastener assembly, as
illustrated in FIG. 128.
[0585] Referring to FIG. 127 once again, the reader will note that
the pins 6243 and 6244 are not illustrated as being seated in the
very bottoms of their respective slots 6233 and 6234 eventhough the
retention matrix 6250 and the caps 6270 have been engaged with the
staple legs 6221. Such circumstances can arise when thick tissue T
is positioned between the retention matrix 6250 and the cartridge
body 6210. In circumstances where thinner tissue T is positioned
between the retention matrix 6250 and the cartridge body 6210,
referring now to FIG. 130, the pins 6243 and 6244 can be drive
further downwardly into their respective slots 6233 and 6234 as
illustrated in FIG. 132. In general, in at least one such
embodiment, the actuator 6235 can be pulled proximally in order to
drive the pins 6243 and 6244 upwardly and downwardly through the
progressions described above and illustrated in FIGS. 130-132 and,
owing to the thinner tissue T, the retention matrix 6250 and the
protective caps 6270 can be driven further onto the staple legs
6221 of the staples 6220, as illustrated in FIGS. 133 and 134. In
various embodiments, as a result of the adjustability afforded by
the retention matrix 6250, the same, or at least substantially the
same, compressive pressure can be obtained in the fastened tissue
regardless of whether the tissue captured within the end effector
is thick or thin. In certain embodiments, the adjustability
afforded by the retention matrix 6250 can allow a surgeon can
select whether to apply a larger compressive pressure or a smaller
compressive pressure to the tissue by selecting the depth to which
the retention matrix 6250 is seated. In at least one such
embodiment, the range in which the retention matrix 6250 can be
seated onto the staple legs 6221 can be determined by the lengths,
or ranges, of the slots 6233 and 6234, for example.
[0586] In various embodiments, as described above, the protective
caps 6270 can be comprised of a soft or flexible material, for
example, which can be configured to grip the ends of the staple
legs 6221. In certain embodiments, the protective caps 6270 can be
comprised of a bioabsorbable plastic, polyglycolic acid (PGA) which
is marketed under the trade name Vicryl, polylactic acid (PLA or
PLLA), polydioxanone (PDS), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA),
poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which is marketed under the trade name
Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL), and/or a composite of PGA, PLA,
PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for example, and/or a biocompatible
metal, such as titanium and/or stainless steel, for example. As
illustrated in FIG. 124, in at least one embodiment, each cap 6270
can be unconnected to the other caps 6270. In certain other
embodiments, one or more caps 6270 can be mounted to the retention
matrix 6250. In at least one such embodiment, the caps 6270 can be
connected to the retention matrix 6250 by at least one adhesive,
for example, wherein the apertures 6271 in the caps 6270 can be
aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the retention
apertures 6252 in the retention matrix 6270. In various
embodiments, referring now to FIG. 135, a protective cap, such as a
cap 6370, for example, can define an inner cavity, or dome, 6374
which can be configured to receive a tip of a staple leg 6221, for
example, therein. In at least one such embodiment, the cap 6370 can
comprise a bottom 6372 and an aperture 6371 extending through the
bottom 6372. In various embodiments, the aperture 6371 can be
defined by one or more deflectable members 6373 which can be
configured to deflect when the staple leg 6221 is inserted
therethrough. In certain embodiments, two or more caps 6370, for
example, can be connected together to form an array of caps 6370.
In at least one such embodiment, referring now to FIG. 136, a
plurality of caps 6370 can be connected together by a sheet of
material 6375. In certain embodiments, the sheet 6375 can be
sufficiently rigid in order to maintain a desired arrangement
and/or alignment of the caps 6370. In at least one embodiment, the
caps 6370 can be comprised of a biocompatible metal, such as
titanium and/or stainless steel, for example, and the sheet 6375
can be comprised of a bioabsorbable plastic, polyglycolic acid
(PGA) which is marketed under the trade name Vicryl, polylactic
acid (PLA or PLLA), polydioxanone (PDS), polyhydroxyalkanoate
(PHA), poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which is marketed under the trade
name Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL), and/or a composite of PGA,
PLA, PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for example. In various
embodiments, a sheet 6375 can be comprised of a bioabsorbable
material including an anti-microbial agent, such as colloidal
silver and/or triclosan, for example, stored and/or dispersed
therein which can be released as the sheet 6375 is bioabsorbed, for
example.
[0587] In various embodiments, further to the above, the sheet 6375
can be injection molded around the caps 6370 utilizing an injection
molding process, for example, such that the caps 6370 are embedded
in the sheet 6375. In certain other embodiments, the sheet 6375 can
be molded utilizing an injection molding process, for example,
wherein apertures 6376 can be formed in the sheet 6375 during the
injection molding process and/or after the injection molding
process utilizing a stamping process, for example. In either event,
the caps 6370 can be inserted into and secured in the apertures
6376 utilizing a press-fit and/or snap-fit interconnection and/or
at least one adhesive. In certain embodiments, each cap 6370 can
comprise an annular groove surrounding, or at least partially
surrounding, the perimeter of the cap 6370 which can be configured
to receive the perimeter of an aperture 6376 therein. In certain
embodiments, the sheet 6375 can be comprised of a flexible and/or
pliable material which can permit relative movement between the
caps 6370. In at least one such embodiment, the flexible sheet 6375
can be comprised of a rubber, plastic, and/or silicone material,
for example, and the caps 6370 can be comprised of a rigid
material, such as metal, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, similar to the above, the flexible material can be
molded around the caps 6370. In certain embodiments, the caps 6370
can be pressed into a pre-molded sheet 6375, for example. In
various embodiments, the durometer of the flexible material can be
selected to provide a desired stiffness of the sheet 6375. In
certain embodiments, the sheet 6375 can be configured such that it
comprises a flexible band. In any event, the sheet 6375 can
facilitate the assembly of the caps 6370 into an end effector as a
plurality of the caps 6370 can be positioned and/or aligned
simultaneously within the end effector. Furthermore, the sheet 6375
connecting the caps 6370, once implanted, can strengthen or bolster
the tissue along the staple line, for example. In addition to or in
lieu of a sheet connecting the caps 6370, the caps 6370 can be
connected together by a plurality of links. In at least one such
embodiment, such links can be flexible and can permit relative
movement between the caps 6370.
[0588] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 139 and 140,
a protective cap, such as cap 6470, for example, can comprise a
forming surface which can be configured to deform a tip of a staple
leg. In at least one such embodiment, the cap 6470 can comprise a
base 6472 which can include an aperture 6471 extending
therethrough. In various embodiments, the aperture 6471 can be
configured to closely receive a staple leg, such as a staple leg
6221, for example, therein. In at least one embodiment, the
aperture 6471 can be defined by a diameter or perimeter which can
be equal to or larger than the diameter or perimeter of the staple
leg 6221. In various embodiments, the cap 6470 can further comprise
a cavity, or dome, 6474 which can be configured to receive the tip
of the staple leg 6221 as it is inserted into the cap 6470.
Referring primarily to FIG. 140, the cap 6470 can further comprise
an anvil, or forming surface, 6473 which can be configured to
deflect and deform the staple leg 6221. In various circumstances,
the forming surface 6473 can be curved and/or concave, for example,
and can be configured to curl the staple leg 6221 as it is inserted
into the cap 6470. In certain embodiments, the staple leg 6221 can
be sufficiently deformed such that it cannot be withdrawn through
the aperture 6471 and, as a result, the cap 6470 can become locked
to the staple leg 6221. In at least one such embodiment, the base
6472 of the cap 6470 can define a lip extending around the aperture
6471 which can prevent the deformed staple leg 6221 from being
removed from the cavity 6474. In various circumstances, as a result
of the above, one or more caps 6470 can prevent, or inhibit, a
retention matrix, such as retention matrix 6250, for example, from
backing up or being disengaged from the staples 6220. In various
embodiments, although not illustrated, the cap 6470 can be
symmetrically, or at least substantially symmetrically, formed, and
the aperture 6471 can be located along a central axis 6479
extending through the cap 6470. In various alternative embodiments,
referring again to FIG. 139, the aperture 6471 can be offset with
respect to the central axis 6479. In at least one such embodiment,
the offset aperture 6471 can allow the staple leg 6221 to contact a
side of the forming surface 6473 and curl over to the other side of
the forming surface 6473 instead of contacting the center of the
forming surface 6473, as may occur in embodiments comprising a
centered aperture 6471 mentioned above.
[0589] In various embodiments, as discussed above, a retention
matrix, such as retention matrix 6250, for example, can be
comprised of a sheet of material and a plurality of retention
apertures 6252 extending therethrough. In at least some
embodiments, the sheet of material comprising the retention matrix
6250 can be rigid or substantially inflexible. In certain other
embodiments, a retention matrix can be comprised of an array of
retention matrix elements and a plurality of flexible connectors,
or links, connecting the retention matrix elements. In various
embodiments, referring now to FIG. 141, a retention matrix, or a
portion of retention matrix, 6550 can comprise a plurality of
element bodies 6505 which can be connected together by one or more
connecting links 6507. In at least one embodiment, each element
body 6505 can comprise a plurality of deformable members 6553 which
define a retention aperture 6552 therein. In certain embodiments,
the element bodies 6505 and the connecting links 6507 of a
retention matrix 6550 can be integrally formed and can comprise a
unitary piece of material. In various embodiments, the retention
matrix 6550 can be stamped or cast, for example, from a metal
material, such as titanium and/or stainless steel, for example. In
at least one embodiment, the retention matrix 6550 can be comprised
of plastic, such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polypropylene
which is marketed under the trade name Prolene, polyester,
polyethylene terephthalate which is marketed under the trade names
Ethibond and Mersilene, polyvinylidene fluoride, polyvinylidene
fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene, poly hexafluoropropylene-VDF which
is marketed under the trade name Pronova, and/or long-chain
aliphatic polymers Nylon 6 and Nylon 6,6 which are marketed under
the trade names Ethilon & Nurolon, for example, and can be
formed by an injection molding process, for example. In certain
embodiments, the element bodies 6505 may not be integrally formed
with the connecting links 6507. In various embodiments, a plurality
of singular element bodies 6505 can be produced which are
subsequently connected together and embedded in a retention matrix.
In at least one such embodiment, the element bodies 6505 can be
stamped from a metal material, such as titanium and/or stainless
steel, for example, and placed in a plastic injection mold wherein
a plastic material can be injected into the mold to form, one, a
rim 6506 of material surrounding, or at least partially
surrounding, the element bodies 6505 and, two, connecting links
6507 extending from the rims 6506. In certain other embodiments,
one or more connector lattices can be formed comprising apertures
defined within a plurality of rims 6506 wherein each such aperture
can be configured to receive an element body 6505 therein. In at
least one embodiment, each element body 6505 can comprise a
circular, or at least substantially circular, outer perimeter and,
similarly, each rim 6506 can define a circular, or at least
substantially circular, aperture therein, wherein the diameter of
the aperture can be equal to or smaller than the diameter of the
element body 6505. In at least one such embodiment, the element
bodies 6505 can be press-fit or embedded into the apertures in the
rims 6505. In certain embodiments, the element bodies 6505 can be
secured in the apertures utilizing at least one adhesive.
[0590] In various embodiments, further to the above, a retention
matrix can comprise a plurality of element bodies 6505 and a
plurality of connecting links 6507 which can connect the element
bodies 6505 in any suitable array, such as those illustrated in
FIGS. 142-145, for example. Regardless of the pattern of the array,
in various embodiments, the connecting links 6507 can be configured
to allow the element bodies 6505 and the retention apertures 6552
to move relative to one another. In at least one such embodiment,
the lattice of element bodies 6505 and connecting links 6507
comprising the retention matrix 6550, once engaged with tissue, can
be configured to stretch, twist, contract, and/or otherwise flex in
order to permit at least some movement within the tissue yet, at
the same time, resist larger movements thereof. In various
embodiments, each connecting link 6507 can comprise a flexible
member configured to stretch, twist, and/or contract in order to
permit the retention matrix 6550 to flex intermediate the matrix
retention elements 6505, for example. Referring again to FIG. 141,
each link 6507 extending from a rim 6506 can be defined by a width
which is narrower than the width of the element body 6505 and/or
the rim 6506. In certain embodiments, referring to FIGS. 142-145,
one or more links 6507 can comprise straight portions which extend
along a line between adjacent element bodies 6506, for example. In
at least one such embodiment, each link 6507 can comprise a first
end attached to a first rim 6506 and a second end attached to a
second rim 6506. In certain embodiments, referring once again to
FIG. 141, two or more links 6507 can be connected to one another.
In at least one such embodiment, two or more links 6507 can be
connected at an intermediate hinge 6509, for example. In various
embodiments, the hinge 6509 can comprise a reduction in
cross-sectional thickness in one or more directions as compared to
the cross-sectional thickness of the links 6507 which can permit
the connected links 6507 to move relative to each other, for
example. In certain embodiments, the retention matrix 6550 can
further comprise hinges 6508 which can connect the links 6507 to
the rims 6506 and permit relative movement between the links 6507
and the rims 6506. Similar to hinges 6509, hinges 6508 can comprise
a reduction in cross-sectional thickness in one or more directions
as compared to the cross-sectional thickness of the links 6507, for
example.
[0591] In various embodiments, further to the above, the connected
links 6507 can extend in different directions. In at least one such
embodiment, a first link 6507 can extend in a first direction and a
second link 6507 can extend in a second direction, wherein the
first direction can be different than the second direction. In
certain embodiments, the first link 6507 can extend along a first
line and the second link 6507 can extend along a second line,
wherein the first line and the second line can intersect each other
at an angle, such as approximately 30 degrees, approximately 45
degrees, approximately 60 degrees, and/or approximately 90 degrees,
for example. In various embodiments, the hinges 6508 and/or hinges
6509 can comprise living hinges which can permit the links 6507 to
move relative to each other a number of times without breaking. In
certain embodiments, the hinges 6508 and/or hinges 6509 can
comprise frangible, or easily-breakable, portions which can break
when flexed too far and/or flexed too many times. In at least one
such embodiment, such frangible portions can permit one or more
portions of the retention matrix 6550 to break away from another
portion of the retention matrix 6550. In various embodiments, the
hinges 6508 and/or hinges 6509, for example, can comprise sections
of the retention matrix 6550 which are easier to incise than the
other portions of the retention matrix 6550. More particularly, an
implanted retention matrix, and the tissue fastened by the
implanted retention matrix, may oftentimes by incised by a cutting
member for various reasons and, in order to facilitate such
cross-cutting, the hinges 6508 and/or hinges 6509 can provide
avenues, or thin sections, through which a cutting member can more
easily pass through the retention matrix 6550, for example. In
various embodiments, further to the above, the connecting links
6507 can comprise one or more coined features or material upsets,
for example, defined therein which can facilitate the bending,
breakage, and/or incision of the connecting links 6507.
[0592] In various embodiments, a retention matrix can comprise a
plurality of retention matrix elements, such as matrix element
bodies 6505, for example, which can be embedded in a flexible
sheet, or band, of material. In at least one embodiment, a flexible
sheet of material can be formed from a bioabsorbable, elastomeric
material, such as silicone, for example, wherein the flexible sheet
can be produced with a plurality of apertures defined therein. In
at least one such embodiment, a solid flexible sheet can be molded
and a plurality of apertures can be punched out of the flexible
sheet. In various alternative embodiments, the flexible sheet can
be molded and the apertures defined therein can be formed during
the molding process. In either event, the retention matrix elements
6505, for example, can be inserted into and retained within the
flexible sheet. In certain other embodiments, similar to the above,
the flexible sheet can be formed around the matrix elements 6505.
In at least one embodiment, the flexible sheet can be comprised of
a woven mesh, for example, and/or any other suitable material. Such
a woven mesh, further to the above, may be easy to cross-cut.
[0593] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 146 and 147,
a fastener system comprising a retention matrix, such as retention
matrix 6250, for example, can further comprise a cover, such as
cover 6670, for example, which can cover the tips of the staple
legs 6221 when they extend above the top surface 6257 of the
retention matrix 6250. In various embodiments, the cover 6670 can
be attached to the retention matrix 6250. In certain embodiments,
the cover 6670 and/or the retention matrix 6250 can comprise
retention features which can be configured to retain the cover 6670
to the retention matrix 6250. In at least one embodiment, at least
one adhesive can be utilized to adhere the cover 6670 to the
retention matrix 6250. In at least one embodiment, the cover 6670
can be comprised of a single layer, although the cover 6670 is
illustrated as comprising two layers as described in greater detail
further below. In various embodiments, referring primarily to FIG.
147, the tips of the staple legs 6221 can extend through a bottom
surface 6673 of the cover 6670; however, the cover 6670 can
comprise a sufficient thickness such that the staple tips do not
extend through the top surface 6675 of the cover 6670. In at least
one such embodiment, as a result, the tips of the staple legs 6221
may not protrude from the cover 6670. In various embodiments, the
cover 6670 can comprise a plurality of layers. In at least one such
embodiment, the cover 6670 can comprise a first layer 6671 and a
second layer 6672. In at least one embodiment, the first layer 6671
and the second layer 6672 can be attached to one another wherein,
in at least one embodiment, the second layer 6672 can comprise a
bottom surface 6676 which is adhered to the first layer 6671. In
various embodiments, the first layer 6671 and the second layer 6672
can comprise different thicknesses while, in certain embodiments,
they can comprise the same thickness. In at least one embodiment,
the first layer 6671 and the second layer 6672 can comprise
substantially the same width and/or length. In alternative
embodiments, the layers 6671 and 6672 can comprise different widths
and/or lengths.
[0594] In various embodiments, further to the above, the first
layer 6671 can be comprised of a compressible foam, mesh material,
and/or hydrogel, for example, which can be incised by the staple
legs 6211. In at least one embodiment, the second layer 6672 can be
comprise of a tougher material, or skin, such as PGA and/or PDS,
for example, and/or any suitable buttress material. In at least one
such embodiment, the staple legs 6221 can be configured to
penetrate the first layer 6671; however, in various embodiments,
the staple legs 6221 may be unable to penetrate the second layer
6672. In certain embodiments, the second layer 6672 can be
comprised of a material having a sufficient resiliency and/or
toughness which can permit the second layer 6672 to be contacted
and displaced by the staple leg 6221 but not be incised, or only
marginally incised, by the staple tip of the staple leg 6221.
Although not illustrated, a cover can comprise more than two layers
wherein one or more of such layers may be penetration-resistant. In
use, in at least one such embodiment, the retention matrix 6250 can
be positioned against the tissue to be fastened and pushed
downwardly such that the staple legs 6221 of the staples 6220 are
pushed through the tissue T and the retention apertures 6252 in the
retention matrix 6250 and enter into the first layer 6271 of the
cover 6270. In various embodiments, the tips of the staple legs
6221 may not enter, or at least substantially enter, into the
second layer 6272 of the cover 6270. After the retention matrix
6250 has been suitably positioned, the jaw 6240 can be opened and
the cover 6670 and the retention matrix 6250 can detach from the
jaw 6240 as illustrated in FIG. 146. As illustrated in FIG. 146, a
jaw 6640 can be configured to hold more than one retention matrix
6250 and cover 6670. In at least one such embodiment, the jaw 6640
can comprise two channels 6679 which each can be configured to
receive a cover 6670 therein and a retention matrix 6250 positioned
thereover such that the tissue-contacting surface 6251 of each
retention matrix 6250 depends downwardly from the bottom of the jaw
6240. In at least one such embodiment, a retention matrix 6250 and
a cover 6270 can be housed in the jaw 6640 on each side of a knife
slot 6678. In use, both retention matrices 6250 and covers 6670 can
be deployed simultaneously and/or to the same depth with respect to
opposing staple cartridges, such as cartridges 6200, for example,
positioned thereacross. Thereafter, in various embodiments, the
fastened tissue can be incised along a cutting line by a cutting
member that traverses the knife slot 6678 wherein the jaw 6640 can
then be re-opened. In certain embodiments, the covers 6670 may not
be attached to the retention matrix 6250. In at least one such
embodiment, the covers 6670 can be positioned in the channels 6679
and can be retained in the channels 6679 by the retention matrices
6250 which can be secured to the jaw 6640. In various embodiments,
the each retention matrix 6250 can be wider and/or longer than
their respective covers 6670 such that the retention matrices 6250
can retain the entirety of their covers 6670 in position. In
certain embodiments, each retention matrix 6250 can comprise the
same width and/or length as their respective cover 6670, for
example.
[0595] In various embodiments, as described above, a fastener
system can comprise a layer of material which can be attached to a
retention matrix, such as retention matrix 6250, for example. In at
least one embodiment, referring now to FIG. 150, a layer of
material 6870 can be attached to the bottom surface 6251 of the
retention matrix 6250. In certain embodiments, the layer 6870
and/or the retention matrix 6250 can comprise retention features
which can be configured to retain the layer 6870 to the retention
matrix 6250. In at least one embodiment, at least one adhesive can
be utilized to adhere the layer 6870 to the retention matrix 6250.
In any event, the layer 6870 can comprise a bottom, or
tissue-contacting, surface 6873 which can be configured to contact
the tissue T when the retention matrix 6250 is moved downwardly
toward the staples 6220 to engage the retention apertures 6252 with
the staple legs 6221. In at least one such embodiment, the layer
6870 can be comprised of a compressible material, such as a
bioabsorbable foam, for example, which can be compressed between
the bottom surface 6251 of the retention matrix 6250 and the tissue
T. In various embodiments, the layer 6870 can further comprise at
least one medicament stored and/or absorbed therein which can be
expressed from the layer 6870 as the layer 6870 is compressed. In
at least one embodiment, the medicament can comprise at least one
tissue sealant, hemostatic agent, and/or anti-microbial material,
such as ionized silver and/or triclosan, for example. In various
embodiments, the compression of the layer 6870 can squeeze the
medicament from the layer 6870 such that the entirety of, or at
least a significant portion of, the surface of the tissue T is
covered with the medicament. Furthermore, as the layer 6870 is
compressed and the staple legs 6221 penetrate the tissue T and the
layer 6870, the medicament can flow down the staple legs 6221 and
treat the tissue that has just been incised by the staple legs
6221, for example. In various embodiments, the body of the
retention matrix 6250 can comprise a first layer which is comprised
of a biocompatible material, such as titanium and/or stainless
steel, for example, and the bottom layer 6870 can comprise a second
layer comprised of a bioabsorbable material, such as oxidized
regenerated cellulose (ORC), biologically active agents like fibrin
and/or thrombin (either in their liquid state or freeze dried),
glycerin, absorbable porcine gelatin in either flue or foam
configurations, and/or anti-microbials, such as ionized silver
and/or triclosan, for example. Additional bioabsorbable materials
can comprise Surgicel Nu-Knit, Surgicel Fibrillar, collagen/ORC
which is a hybrid with a built in collagen matrix and is marketed
under the trade name Promogran, polyglycolic acid (PGA) which is
marketed under the trade name Vicryl, polylactic acid (PLA or
PLLA), polydioxanone (PDS), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA),
poliglecaprone 25 (PGCL) which is marketed under the trade name
Monocryl, polycaprolactone (PCL), and/or a composite of PGA, PLA,
PDS, PHA, PGCL and/or PCL, for example. Although only one layer
6870 is illustrated in FIG. 150, any suitable number of layers
could be used. In at least one embodiment, a first layer comprising
a first medicament could be attached to the retention matrix 6250
and a second layer comprising a second, or different, medicament
could be attached to the first layer. In at least one such
embodiment, a plurality of layers could be used wherein each layer
can comprise a different medicament and/or a different combination
of medicaments contained therein.
[0596] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 148, a
fastener system can comprise a layer of material 6770 attached to
the bottom surface 6251 of the retention matrix 6250. In certain
embodiments, the layer 6770 and/or the retention matrix 6250 can
comprise retention features which can be configured to retain the
layer 6770 to the retention matrix 6250. In at least one
embodiment, at least one adhesive can be utilized to adhere the
layer 6770 to the retention matrix 6250. In any event, the layer
6770 can comprise a bottom, or tissue-contacting, surface 6773
which can be configured to contact the tissue T when the retention
matrix 6250 is moved downwardly toward the staples 6220 to engage
the retention apertures 6252 with the staple legs 6221. In at least
one such embodiment, the layer 6770 can be comprised of a
compressible material, such as a bioabsorbable foam, for example,
which can be compressed between the surface 6251 of the retention
matrix 6250 and the tissue T. In various embodiments, the layer
6770 can further comprise one or more encapsulations, or cells,
6774 which can be configured to store at least one medicament
therein. In certain embodiments, referring to FIG. 149, the
encapsulations 6774 can be aligned, or at least substantially
aligned, with the retention apertures 6252 such that, when the
staple legs 6221 are pushed through the tissue T and the layer
6770, the staple legs 6221 can puncture and/or otherwise rupture
the encapsulations 6774. After the encapsulations 6774 have been
ruptured, the at least one medicament M stored in the
encapsulations 6774 can flow out onto the tissue T. In at least one
such embodiment, the medicament M can comprise a fluid which can
flow or wick down the staple legs 6221 and treat the tissue T that
was just incised by the staple legs. As a result of the above, the
medicament stored within the encapsulations 6774 can provide a
localized treatment to the tissue. In certain embodiments, the
encapsulations 6774 in the sheet 6770 can comprise different
medicaments stored therein. For example, a first group of
encapsulations 6774 can comprise a first medicament, or a first
combination of medicaments, stored therein and a second group of
encapsulations can comprise a different medicament, or a different
combination of medicaments, stored therein. In various embodiments,
the layer 6770 can be comprised of a flexible silicone sheet and
the encapsulations 6774 can represent voids in the silicone sheet.
In at least one such embodiment, the silicone sheet can comprise
two layers that can be attached to one another wherein the
encapsulations 6774 can be defined between the two layers. In
various embodiments, the layer 6770 can comprise one or more thin
sections or weakened portions, such as partial perforations, for
example, which can facilitate the incision of the layer 6770 and
the rupture of the encapsulations 6774 by the legs 6221. In certain
embodiments, at least a portion of the encapsulations 6774 can be
positioned within domes 6777, wherein the domes 6777 can extend
upwardly from the sheet 6770. In at least one such embodiment, the
domes 6777 and/or at least a portion of the encapsulations 6774 can
be positioned within the pockets 6201 formed within the retention
matrix 6250. In certain embodiments, the encapsulations 6774 may
comprise discrete cells which are unconnected to each other. In
certain other embodiments, one or more of the encapsulations 6774
can be in fluid communication with each other via one or more
passageways, conduits, and/or channels, for example, extending
through the layer 6770. The disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 7,780,685,
entitled ADHESIVE AND MECHANICAL FASTENER, which issued on Aug. 24,
2010, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0597] In various embodiments, further to the above, a staple
cartridge comprising a cartridge body, staples, and/or an alignment
matrix therein can be loaded into a first jaw of an end effector
and, similarly, a retention matrix and/or one or more covers can be
loaded into a second jaw of the end effector. In certain
embodiments, referring now to FIG. 151, an instrument, such as
cartridge loader 6990, for example, can be used to insert two or
more fastener cartridges into an end effector at the same. In at
least one embodiment, the cartridge loader 6990 can comprise a
handle 6991 and a cartridge carrier 6992, wherein the cartridge
carrier 6992 can comprise a first retention portion configured to
retain the cartridge body 6210 of the staple cartridge 6200 thereto
and, in addition, a second retention portion configured to retain a
cartridge body 6980 which supports, one, a plurality of protective
caps 6270 therein and, two, a retention matrix 6250 along the
bottom surface thereof, for example. In various embodiments, the
first and second retention portions can each comprise one or more
retention members configured to releasably engage the cartridge
bodies 6210 and 6980. In use, referring now to FIGS. 152 and 153,
an end effector can comprise a first, or bottom, jaw 6230 and a
second, or top, jaw 6940, wherein the staple cartridge 6200 can be
loaded into the first jaw 6230 and the cartridge body 6980 can be
loaded into the second jaw 6940. In various circumstances, the top
jaw 6940 can be rotated from an open position (FIG. 152) to a
closed position (FIG. 153) by an actuator 6235, wherein the
operation of the actuator 6235 is described above and is not
repeated herein for the sake of brevity. Once the top jaw 6940 is
in its closed position, referring now to FIG. 153, the distal end
6993 of the cartridge carrier 6992 can be inserted into the end
effector such that the staple cartridge 6200 is slid through the
distal end 6938 of the first jaw 6930 and into a first attachment
portion, or channel, 6939 in the first jaw 6230. Similarly, the
distal end 6993 of the cartridge carrier 6992 can be inserted into
the end effector such that the cartridge body 6980 is slid through
the distal end 6948 of the second jaw 6940 and into a second
attachment portion, or channel, 6949 in the second jaw 6940. A
surgeon, or other clinician, holding the handle 6991 of the
cartridge loader 6990 can push the staple cartridge 6200 and the
cartridge body 6980 through the channels 6939 and 6949,
respectively, until the staple cartridge 6200 and the cartridge
body 6980 are fully seated therein.
[0598] As the staple cartridge 6200 and the cartridge body 6980 are
being seated, the staple cartridge 6200 and the cartridge body 6980
can each engage one or more retention portions in their respective
jaws 6230 and 6940, as described in greater detail further below.
In any event, once the staple cartridge 6200 and the cartridge body
6980 have been seated, referring now to FIG. 154, the cartridge
loader 6990 can be detached from the staple cartridge 6200 and the
cartridge body 6980 and removed from the end effector. In at least
one such embodiment, the retention force holding the staple
cartridge 6200 in the first jaw 6230 can be greater than the
retention force holding the staple cartridge 6200 to the cartridge
carrier 6992 such that, as the cartridge carrier 6992 is pulled
distally out of the end effector, the staple cartridge 6200 can
remain behind in the first jaw 6230. Similarly, the retention force
holding the cartridge body 6980 in the second jaw 6940 can be
greater than the retention force holding the cartridge body 6940 to
the cartridge carrier 6992 such that, as the cartridge carrier 6992
is pulled distally out of the end effector, the cartridge body 6940
can remain behind in the second jaw 6940. Once the cartridge loader
6990 has been removed from the end effector, the loaded first jaw
6230 and the loaded second jaw 6940 can be positioned relative to
the tissue T that is to be stapled. Referring now to FIG. 155, the
second jaw 6940 can be moved from an open position (FIG. 154) to a
fired position (FIG. 155) in order to engage the retention matrix
6250 and the plurality of protective caps 6270 carried by the
cartridge body 6980 with the staples 6220 positioned within the
staple cartridge 6200.
[0599] Referring now to FIGS. 156 and 157, the second jaw 6940 can
be re-opened and the plurality of protective caps 6270 and the
retention matrix 6250 can detach from the cartridge body 6980 such
that the caps 6270 and the retention matrix 6250 can remain engaged
with the tissue T and the staple cartridge 6200. In at least one
embodiment, the cartridge body 6980 can comprise a plurality of
pockets in which the plurality of caps 6270 can be removably
positioned and one or more retention slots configured to removably
retain the retention matrix 6250 thereto. In various embodiments,
the retention members of the second jaw 6940 engaged with the
cartridge body 6980 can retain the cartridge body 6980 in the
second jaw 6940 after the second jaw 6940 has been opened. In
certain embodiments, the cartridge body 6980 can be configured to
tear as the second jaw 6940 is opened such that a portion of the
cartridge body 6980 is implanted with the caps 6270 and the
retention matrix 6250 and a portion of the cartridge body 6980
remains in the second jaw 6940. Similarly, referring again to FIGS.
156 and 157, the retention members of the first jaw 6230 engaged
with the cartridge body 6210 can retain the cartridge body 6210 in
the first jaw 6230 after the second jaw 6940 has been opened. In
certain embodiments, the cartridge body 6210 can be configured to
tear as the first jaw 6230 is pulled away from the implanted
cartridge 6200 such that a portion of the cartridge body 6210 is
implanted with the staples 6220 and alignment matrix 6260 and a
portion of the cartridge body 6210 remains in the first jaw 6230.
In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 158-160, a staple
cartridge, such as staple cartridge 6900, for example, can comprise
one or more longitudinal retention slots 6913 extending along the
length of the cartridge body 6910 which, when the staple cartridge
6900 is inserted into a jaw 6930, for example, can be configured to
receive one or more longitudinal retention rails 6916 extending
from the jaw 6930 therein. In use, in at least one embodiment, an
end of the retention slots 6913 can be aligned with the distal ends
of the retention rails 6916 before the staple cartridge 6900 is
slid through the distal end 6938 of the retention channel 6939, for
example.
[0600] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 160, the jaw
6940 can comprise two retention channels 6949, wherein each
retention channel 6949 can be configured to receive a cartridge
body 6980 comprising a plurality of caps 6270 and a retention
matrix 6250 therein. In certain embodiments, each cartridge body
6980 can comprise one or more longitudinal retention shoulders 6917
which can be configured to be slid along one or more longitudinal
retention rails 6918 of the second jaw 6940 as the cartridge bodies
6980 are inserted into their respective retention channels 6949 in
jaw 6940. In various embodiments, the retention rails 6918 and the
retention shoulders 6917 can co-operate to retain the cartridge
body 6980 in the second jaw 6940 as the cartridge bodies 6980 are
detached from the caps 6270 and the retention matrix 6250 stored
therein. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 159, the
second jaw 6940 can further comprise one or more distal bumps, or
retention members, 6915 extending therefrom which can be configured
to removably lock the cartridge bodies 6980 in their respective
retention channels. In at least one such embodiment, the second jaw
6940 can comprise a distal bump 6915 configured and positioned
relative to each retention channel 6949 such that each cartridge
body 6980 can flex around the bumps 6915 as the cartridge bodies
6980 are being inserted into the channels 6949 wherein, just as the
cartridge bodies 6915 are being fully seated in the channels 6949,
the distal ends of the cartridge bodies 6980 can clear and snap
over the bumps 6915. In order to remove the cartridge bodies 6980
after they have been expended, as described above, the cartridge
bodies 6980 can be pulled back over the bumps 6915 and removed from
the retention channels 6949. Similar to the above, the first jaw
6930 can comprise one or more distal retention bumps 6914 extending
therefrom which can be configured to be received in one or more
retention grooves, or slots, 6912 (FIG. 158) in the cartridge body
6910 when the staple cartridge 6900 has been fully seated.
[0601] In various embodiments, further to the above, a first
fastener cartridge comprising a plurality of first fasteners
positioned therein can be positioned in a first jaw of a surgical
fastening device and a second fastener cartridge comprising a
plurality of second fasteners positioned therein can be positioned
in a second jaw of the surgical fastening device. In use, the first
jaw and/or the second jaw can be moved toward the other in order to
engage the first fasteners with the second fasteners and secure
tissue therebetween. In certain embodiments, the first fastener
cartridge and the second fastener cartridge can be engaged with
each other as the first fasteners are engaged with the second
fasteners. In at least one embodiment, the body of the first
fastener cartridge can be comprised of a first compressible
material and the body of the second fastener cartridge can be
comprised of a second compressible material, wherein the first body
and/or the second body can be compressed against the tissue being
fastened. After the tissue has been fastened, the first jaw can be
moved away from the implanted first fastener cartridge and the
second jaw can be moved away from the implanted second fastener
cartridge. Thereafter, the first jaw can be reloaded with another
first fastener cartridge, or the like, and the second jaw can be
reloaded with another second fastener cartridge, or the like, and
the surgical fastening instrument can be reused. While staples can
be used in some embodiments, other embodiments are envisioned
comprising other types of fasteners, such as two-part fasteners
which are locked together when they are engaged with one another,
for example. In at least one such embodiment, the first fastener
cartridge can comprise a first storage portion for storing the
first fastener portions and the second fastener cartridge can
comprise a second storage portion for storing the second fastener
portions. In various embodiments, the fastening systems described
herein can utilize fasteners comprising any suitable type of
material and/or form. In certain embodiments, the fasteners can
comprise penetrating members. Such penetrating members could be
comprised of a polymer, a composite, and/or a multi-layered
substrate, for example. An example of a multi-layered substrate
could be a wire or a sheet substrate with an elastomeric or
polymeric coating. It could be a thin sheet formed such that
penetrating members are oriented perpendicular, or at least
substantially perpendicular, to the connecting member. The
penetrating members could comprise a rectangular profile,
semi-circular profile, and/or any beam profile. In various
embodiments, the fasteners described herein can be manufactured
utilizing any suitable process, such as a wire extruding process,
for example. Another possibility is the use of microfabrication to
create hollow penetrating members. These penetrating members could
be fabricated from a process which is different than a wire
extruded process and could use a combination of materials.
[0602] As described above, the tips of staple legs protruding
through a retention matrix can be covered by one or more caps
and/or covers. In certain embodiments, the tips of the staple legs
can be deformed after they have been inserted through the retention
matrix. In at least one embodiment, a jaw holding the retention
matrix can further comprise anvil pockets positioned above and/or
aligned with the retention apertures which can be configured to
deform the staple legs as they protrude above the retention matrix.
In various embodiments, the staple legs of each staple can be
curled inwardly toward each other and/or toward the center of the
staple, for example. In certain other embodiments, one or more of
the staple legs of a staple can be curled outwardly away from the
other staple legs and/or away from the center of the staple. In
various embodiments, regardless of the direction in which the
staple legs are curled, the tips of the staple legs can contact the
body of the retention matrix and may not re-enter the tissue that
has been fastened by the staples. In at least one embodiment, the
deformation of the staple legs after they have passed through the
retention matrix can lock the retention matrix in position.
[0603] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 161 and 162,
a surgical stapling instrument, such as surgical stapler 7000, for
example, can comprise a first jaw 7030 and a second jaw 7040,
wherein the second jaw 7040 can be moved toward and away from the
first jaw 7030 by the movement of actuator 6235. The operation of
actuator 6235 is described above and is not repeated herein for the
sake of brevity. In various embodiments, the first jaw 7030 can
comprise a distal end 7031 and a proximal end 7032, wherein the
first jaw 7030 can define a channel extending between the distal
end 7031 and the proximal end 7032 which is configured to receive a
staple cartridge. For the purposes of illustration, the cartridge
body of such a staple cartridge is not depicted in FIG. 161,
although such a staple cartridge can comprise a cartridge body,
staples 6220 positioned within the cartridge body, and staple
drivers 7012 positioned underneath the staples 6220. In certain
embodiments, although not illustrated in FIG. 161 for the sake of
clarity, the second jaw 7040 can be configured to hold a retention
matrix, such as retention matrix 6250, for example, over the
staples 6220 and/or move the retention matrix into engagement with
the legs of the staples 6220 as described above. In at least one
embodiment, the surgical stapler 7000 can further comprise a sled
7010 positioned in the first jaw 7030 which can be slid from the
distal end 7031 of the first jaw 7030 toward the proximal end 7032,
for example, and lift the staple drivers 7012, and the staple 6220
supported thereon, toward the retention matrix and the second jaw
7040. In various other embodiments, the sled 7010 can be moved from
the proximal end 7032 toward the distal end 7031 in order to deploy
the staples 6020, for example. In at least one embodiment, the sled
7010 can comprise one or more inclined ramps, or cams, 7011 which
can be configured to slide underneath the staple drivers 7012 and
lift the staple drivers 7012 upwardly. In various embodiments, the
surgical stapler 7000 can further comprise a pull, or push, rod
operably coupled to the sled 7010 which can be moved proximally
and/or distally by an actuator located on a handle and/or shaft of
the surgical stapler 7000, for example.
[0604] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 161, the
second jaw 7040 of the surgical stapler 7000 can comprise a frame
7041, a distal end 7048, and a proximal end 7049 positioned
opposite the distal end 7048. In certain embodiments, the second
jaw 7040 can further comprise a guide system comprising one or more
guide rails, such as guide rails 7045 and 7046, for example,
extending along the longitudinal axis of the frame 7041 which, as
described in greater detail further below, can be configured to
guide one or more anvils, or cams, which can engage and deform the
staple legs of the staples 6220 after the staple legs 6221 of the
staples 6220 have passed through the retention matrix. In at least
one such embodiment, the guide rails 7045 and 7046 can comprise a
guide wire or cable which extends along a top portion or surface of
the frame 7041, around a distal post 7047, and back along the top
portion or surface of the frame 7041, for example. In various
embodiments, as mentioned above and referring primarily now to
FIGS. 163 and 165, the second jaw 7040 can further comprise one or
more anvils, or cams, such as first anvil 7050 and second anvil
7060, for example, which can be moved longitudinally along the
second jaw 7040 in order to deform the legs of the staples 6220
after they have passed through the retention matrix. In at least
one embodiment, the surgical stapler 7000 can further comprise a
first anvil driver, or actuator, 7051 connected to and/or operably
coupled to the first anvil 7050 which can be configured to pull the
first anvil 7050 proximally and/or push the first anvil 7050
distally. Similarly, in at least one embodiment, the surgical
stapler 7000 can further comprise a second anvil driver, or
actuator, connected to and/or operably coupled to the second anvil
7060 which can be configured to push the second anvil 7060 distally
and/or pull the second anvil 7060 proximally. In various
embodiments, the first anvil 7050 can comprise guide slots 7052 and
the second anvil 7060 can comprise guide slots 7062 which can each
be configured to slidably receive guide rail 7045 or guide rail
7046 therein. In at least one such embodiment, the guide rails 7045
and 7046 can be closely received within the guide slots 7052 and
7062 such that relative lateral, or side-to-side, movement
therebetween can be prevented, or at least limited.
[0605] In certain embodiments, further to the above, the first
anvil 7050 can be pulled proximally and the second anvil 7060 can
be pulled distally. In at least one embodiment, referring to FIG.
161, the guide rails 7045 and 7046 and the distal post 7047 can
comprise a pulley system configured to pull the second anvil 7060
distally and/or pull the second anvil 7060 proximally. In at least
one such embodiment, the guide rail 7045 and the guide rail 7046
can comprise a continuous wire or cable extending around the distal
post 7047, wherein a portion of the continuous wire can be pulled
in order to cycle the wire around the distal post 7047. In various
embodiments, the guide rail 7046, for example, can be mounted to
the second anvil 7060 such that, when the continuous cable is
cycled in a first direction, the second anvil 7060 can be pulled
distally toward the distal end 7048 of the jaw 7040 and, when the
continuous cable is cycled in a second, or opposite, direction, the
second anvil 7060 can be pulled proximally toward the proximal end
7049. In at least one embodiment, referring now to FIG. 163, the
guide rail 7046 can be secured within a guide slot 7062 such that a
pulling force can be transmitted therebetween. In at least one such
embodiment, the guide rail 7045 can be configured to slide within
the other guide slot 7062. In various embodiments, the first anvil
7050 may operate independently of the second anvil 7060 and the
pulley system and the guide slots 7052 defined in the first anvil
7050 may be configured to slidably receive the guide rails 7045 and
7046 such that relative movement is permitted therebetween. In
various embodiments, the continuous cable comprising guide rails
7045 and 7046 can be sufficiently flexible in order to accommodate
the opening and closing of the top jaw 7040. The continuous cable
can also be sufficiently flexible in order to accommodate the
vertical movement of the second anvil 7060 toward and away from the
bottom jaw 7030, which is described in greater detail further
below.
[0606] In various embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 163 and
165, the first anvil 7050 can comprise cam followers 7055 extending
therefrom which can be configured to ride in one or more cam slots,
or guide slots, such as cam slot 7070 (FIG. 166), for example,
defined in the frame 7041 of the second jaw 7040. More
particularly, in at least one embodiment, the frame 7041 can
comprise a first cam slot 7070 extending longitudinally along a
first side of the frame 7041 and a second cam 7070 extending
longitudinally along a second, or opposite, side of the frame 7041,
wherein the cam followers 7055 extending from a first side of the
first anvil 7050 can ride in the first cam slot 7070 and the cam
followers 7055 extending from a second side of the first anvil 7050
can ride in the second cam slot 7070. In at least one such
embodiment, the contours of each cam slot 7070 can be identical, or
at least substantially identical, and can be aligned, or at least
substantially aligned, with one another. Similarly, in various
embodiments, the second anvil 7060 can comprise cam followers 7065
extending therefrom which can be configured to ride in the cam
slots 7070 (FIG. 166) defined in the frame 7041 of the second jaw
7040. More particularly, in at least one embodiment, the cam
followers 7065 extending from a first side of the second anvil 7060
can ride in the first cam slot 7070 and the cam followers 7065
extending from a second side of the second anvil 7060 can ride in
the second cam slot 7070. In use, the cam followers 7055 of the
first anvil 7050 and the cam followers 7065 of the second anvil
7060 can slide within the cam slots 7070 such that first anvil 7050
and the second anvil 7060 follow the contours of the cam slots 7070
as the first anvil 7050 and the second anvil 7060 are pulled
proximally and/or pushed distally. In various embodiments, each cam
slot 7070 can comprise a plurality of dwell, or upper, portions
7071 and a plurality of driver, or lower, portions 7072 which can
be configured to move the anvils 7050 and 7060 vertically, i.e.,
toward and away from the bottom jaw 7030, at the same time that the
anvils 7050 and 7060 are being moved longitudinally, i.e., between
the distal end 7048 and the proximal end 7049 of the frame 7041, as
described in greater detail further below.
[0607] When the surgical stapler 7000 is in an unfired condition,
referring to FIG. 166, the first anvil 7050 can be positioned at
the distal end 7048 of the frame 7041 and the second anvil 7060 can
be positioned at the proximal end 7049 of the frame 7041;
furthermore, referring now to FIG. 167, the staples 6220 positioned
in the first jaw 7030 may not yet be inserted into the tissue T
and/or the retention matrix positioned thereabove when the surgical
stapler 7000 is in an unfired condition. In use, referring now to
FIG. 168, the staples 6220 can be driven upwardly within the staple
cavities 7033 of a staple cartridge by the staple drivers 7012 and,
in addition, the first anvil 7050 can be moved proximally from the
distal end 7048 of the frame 7041 toward the distal end 7049 in
order to engage the staple legs 6221 of the staples 6220. In at
least one embodiment, the staples 6220 can be driven upwardly
before the first anvil 7050 is engaged with the staple legs 6221
thereof. In various embodiments, all of the staples 6220 may be
deployed upwardly by the sled 7010 before the first anvil 7050 is
advanced into contact with the staple legs 6221 or, alternatively,
the sled 7010 may be moved proximally at the same time that the
first anvil 7050 is moved proximally, although the sled 7010 may
sufficiently lead the first anvil 7050 in order to deploy the
staples 6220 ahead of the first anvil 7050. In various embodiments,
as illustrated in FIG. 168, the cam slots 7070 can be configured
and arranged such that the forming surfaces, such as forming, or
camming, surfaces 7053 and 7054, for example, of the first cam 7050
can contact at least some of the staple legs 6221 when the first
cam 7050 is passing through a dwell, or upper, position. In various
circumstances, the cam followers 7055 of the first anvil 7050 can
each be positioned in a dwell portion 7071 of the cam slots 7070
such that the forming surfaces 7053 and 7054 are in a raised
position and such that the staple legs 6221 are only partially
deformed when the anvil 7050 passes thereby in the dwell position.
As the first cam 7050 is moved further along the cam slots 7070, as
illustrated in FIG. 169, the cam followers 7055 of the first anvil
7050 can be driven into driven, or lower, portions 7072 of the cam
slots 7070 such that the forming surfaces 7053 and 7054 are moved
vertically downwardly toward the staple legs 6021 in order to drive
the staple legs 6021 into their finally formed configurations.
Thereafter, as the first anvil 7050 is progressed further along the
cam slots 7070, the first anvil 7050 can be driven vertically
upwardly into another set of dwell portions 7071 of the cam slots
7070. As illustrated in FIGS. 168 and 169, the reader will note
that the first anvil 7050 may only engage some of the staple legs
and not others. In at least one such embodiment, the first anvil
7050 can be configured to only deform a group of staple legs
comprising the distal staple legs 6221 of the staples 6220, for
example. In at least one such embodiment, the first anvil 7050 can
be configured to deform the distal staple legs 6221 toward the
center of the staples 6220. In various embodiments, each proximal
staple leg 6221 can be contacted twice by the first anvil 7050,
i.e., by a first forming surface 7053 and by a second forming
surface 7054 aligned with the first forming surface 7053. In at
least one such embodiment, the first forming surfaces 7053 can
deform the distal staple legs 6221 into a partially-deformed
configuration when the first anvil 7050 is in a dwell, or upper,
position and the second forming surfaces 7054 can deform the distal
staple legs 6221 into a fully-formed configuration when the first
anvil 7050 is moved into a driven, or lower, position. In various
embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 163 and 164, the first anvil
7050 can comprise a plurality of first forming surfaces 7053 and a
plurality of second forming surfaces 7054 in order to deform the
distal staple legs 6221 of staples 6220 when the staple legs 6221
are arranged in more than one row or line. In various embodiments,
as described in greater detail further below, the proximal staple
legs 6221 of the staples 6020 can be deformed by the second anvil
7060, for example.
[0608] In various embodiments, further to the above, the first
anvil 7050 can be moved from the distal end 7048 of the frame 7041
to the proximal end 7049 in order to deform all of the distal
staple legs 6221 of the staples 6220. As the reader will note, the
first anvil 7050 can be moved up and down relative to the
undeformed proximal staple legs 6221 and, in order to accommodate
such relative movement, in various embodiments, the first anvil
7050 can comprise one or more clearance slots 7057 (FIG. 165) which
can be configured to receive the unbent proximal staple legs 6221
as the first anvil 7050 bends the distal staple legs 6221.
Similarly, referring again to FIG. 163, the second anvil 7060 can
comprise a clearance slot 7067 which can be configured to
accommodate the vertical movement of the first cam actuator 7051
which moves up and down as the first anvil 7050 is moved between
its dwell and driven positions as described above. After all of the
distal staple legs 6221 have been bent, in at least one embodiment,
the second anvil 7060 can be moved from the proximal end 7049 of
the frame 7041 to the distal end 7048 by the anvil actuator 7061.
Similar to the above, referring now to FIG. 170, the cam followers
7065 of the second anvil 7060 can slide within the cam slots 7070
such that the second anvil 7060 is moved between dwell, or upper,
positions and driven, or lower, positions in order to deform the
proximal staple legs 6221 inwardly toward the centers of the
staples 6220, for example. Similar to the above, the second anvil
7060 can comprise a plurality of first forming, or camming,
surfaces 7063 and a plurality of second forming, or camming,
surfaces 7064 which can each be configured to at least partially
deform and/or completely deform one or more of the proximal staple
legs 6021. Referring again to FIG. 164, the second anvil 7060 can
comprise a plurality of first forming surface 7063 and a plurality
of second forming surfaces 7064 which can be configured to deform
the proximal staple legs 6221 of staples 6220 arranged in a
plurality of rows, or lines, for example. As also illustrated in
FIG. 164, the first forming surfaces 7063 and the second forming
surfaces 7064 of the second anvil 7060 may not be aligned with the
first forming surfaces 7053 and the second forming surfaces 7054 of
the first anvil 7050 wherein, as a result, the proximal legs 6221
of the staples 6220 may be positioned in different rows, or lines,
than the distal legs 6221 of the staples 6220. As the reader will
also note, the second anvil 7060 can push the first anvil 7050 as
the second anvil 7060 is moved distally. In at least one such
embodiment, the second anvil 7060 can push the first anvil 7050
back into the distal end 7048 of the frame 7041 such that the first
anvil 7050 can be returned to its initial, or unfired, position.
After all of the proximal staple legs 6221 of the staples 6220 have
been deformed, the second anvil 7060 can be retracted proximally
and returned to its initial, or unfired, position. In this way, the
surgical stapler 7000 can be reset such that a new staple cartridge
can be positioned in the first jaw 7030 and a new retention matrix
can be positioned in the second jaw 7040 in order to use the
surgical stapler 7000 once again.
[0609] In various embodiments, as described above, a surgical
stapler can comprise two or more anvils which can travel
longitudinally in order to engage the legs of a plurality of
staples in a transverse direction. In certain embodiments, a
surgical stapler can comprise an anvil which is moved proximally,
for example, in order to deform a first group of staple legs and
distally, for example, in order to deform a second group of staple
legs. In at least one such embodiment, such an anvil can comprise
forming surfaces facing proximally and forming surfaces facing
distally, for example.
[0610] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 171, an anvil,
such as anvil 7140, for example, can comprise a bottom, or
tissue-contacting, surface 7141 and a plurality of forming pockets
7142 defined therein. In at least one embodiment, the anvil 7140
can comprise more than one plate, such as pocket plates 7143, for
example, which can be welded into a frame 7144. In at least one
such embodiment, each pocket plate 7143 can be positioned in a
plate channel 7145 in the frame 7144 and welded to the frame 7144
through a weld slot 7146 extending through the frame 7144 in order
to form a longitudinal weld 7147. In various circumstances, the
longitudinal weld 7147 can comprise a continuous weld extending
along the entire length of the weld slot 7146 or a series of
spaced-apart spot welds extending along the length thereof, for
example. In various embodiments, each pocket plate 7143 can
comprise two or more plate portions that have been welded together.
In at least one such embodiment, each pocket plate 7143 can
comprise a first plate portion 7143a and a second plate portion
7143b which can be welded together along a seam 7148. In various
embodiments, the first plate portion 7143a and the second plate
portion 7143b of each plate 7143 can be welded together before the
plates 7143 are welded into the plate channels 7145 in the frame
7144. In at least one such embodiment, the first plate portion
7143a and the second plate portion 7143b can comprise co-operating
profiles, such as the toothed profiles illustrated in FIG. 171, for
example, which can be fitted together to form a tight seam 7148. In
at least one embodiment, each plate 7143 can comprise a height of
approximately 0.02'', for example, which can be taller than the
depth of the plate channels 7145 such that the tissue-contacting
surfaces 7141 thereof extend from the frame 7044 of the anvil 7040.
In certain embodiments, referring now to FIG. 172, the plates 7143
can be connected together by at least one weld 7149 at the distal
ends of the plates 7143, for example.
[0611] As illustrated in FIGS. 171 and 172, each pocket plate 7143
can comprise a plurality of forming pockets 7142 defined therein.
In various embodiments, the forming pockets 7142 can be formed in
the plates 7143 by any suitable manufacturing process, such as a
grinding process and/or electrode-burning process, for example. In
at least one such embodiment, referring now to FIGS. 173 and 174,
each forming pocket 7142 can be manufactured by first forming a
deep well 7150, then forming an arcuate or curved surface 7151
surrounding the deep well 7150, and then forming a staple leg guide
groove 7152 in the curved surface 7151, for example. In various
other embodiments, these steps can be performed in any suitable
order. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 175, the
staple forming pockets 7142 can be formed such that the inner edges
7153 of the forming pockets are separated by a consistent, or at
least substantially consistent, gap 7154. In at least one such
embodiment, the gap 7154 can be approximately 0.008'', for example.
Furthermore, in at least one such embodiment, the forming pockets
7142 can be positioned along two or more rows, or lines, the
centerlines of which can be separated by a consistent, or at least
substantially consistent, spacing 7155. In at least one such
embodiment, the spacing 7155 between the centerlines can be
approximately 0.035'', for example. In various embodiments,
referring again to FIG. 175, each forming pocket 7142 can taper
between a narrow width 7156 and a wide width 7157. In at least one
such embodiment, the narrow width 7156 can be approximately 0.045''
and the wide width 7157 can be approximately 0.075'', for example.
In various embodiments, the plates 7143 can be comprised of the
same material as the frame 7144. In at least one such embodiment,
the plates 7143 and the frame 7144 can both be comprised of
stainless steel, such as a 300 series or a 400 series stainless
steel, for example, and/or titanium, for example. In various other
embodiments, the plates 7143 and the frame 7144 can be comprised of
different materials. In at least one such embodiment, the plates
7143 can be comprised of a ceramic material, for example, and the
frame 7144 can be comprised of a stainless steel and/or titanium,
for example. In various circumstances, depending on the materials
used, at least one brazing process could be used to secure the
plates 7143 in the frame 7144 in addition to or in lieu of the
welding processes described above, for example.
[0612] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 176-178, an
anvil 7240 can comprise a frame 7244 and a plurality of pocket
plates 7243 which can be inserted into the frame 7244. Similar to
the above, each pocket plate 7243 can comprise a plurality of
forming pockets 7242 defined therein. In at least one embodiment,
the anvil frame 7244 can comprise retention slots 7246 defined
therein which can each be configured to receive a retention rail
7247 extending from a pocket plate 7243. In order to assemble the
pocket plates 7243 to the anvil frame 7244, the side walls 7245 of
the anvil frame 7244 can be flexed or splayed outwardly, as
illustrated in FIG. 177, in order to widen the retention slots 7246
such that each retention slot 7246 can receive a retention rail
7247 of a pocket plate 7243 therein. Once the retention rails 7247
have been positioned in the retention slots 7246, the side walls
7245 can be released, as illustrated in FIG. 178, thereby allowing
the frame 7244 to resiliently contract and/or return to its
unflexed state. In such circumstances, the retention slots 7246 can
contract and thereby capture the retention rails 7247 therein. In
certain embodiments, the retention rails 7247 and/or the retention
slots 7246 can comprise one or more co-operating tapered surfaces
which, after the flexed retention slots 7246 have been released,
can form a taper-lock engagement which can retain the retention
rails 7247 in the retention slots 7246. Similar to the above, the
pocket plates 7243 can be comprised of the same material as or a
different material than the frame 7244. In at least one such
embodiment, the plates 7243 can be comprised of a ceramic material,
for example, and the frame 7244 can be comprised of a stainless
steel and/or titanium, for example. In various circumstances,
depending on the materials used, at least one brazing process
and/or at least one welding process, for example, could be used to
secure the plates 7243 in the frame 7244.
[0613] In FIGS. 179 and 180, a surgical stapling and severing
instrument 8010 can comprise an anvil 8014 which may be repeatably
opened and closed about its pivotal attachment to an elongate
staple channel 8016. A staple applying assembly 8012 can comprise
the anvil 8014 and the channel 8016, wherein the assembly 8012 can
be proximally attached to the elongate shaft 8018 forming an
implement portion 8022. When the staple applying assembly 8012 is
closed, or at least substantially closed, the implement portion
8022 can present a sufficiently small cross-section suitable for
inserting the staple applying assembly 8012 through a trocar. In
various embodiments, the assembly 8012 can be manipulated by a
handle 8020 connected to the shaft 8018. The handle 8020 can
comprise user controls such as a rotation knob 8030 that rotates
the elongate shaft 8018 and staple applying assembly 8012 about a
longitudinal axis of the shaft 8018. A closure trigger 8026, which
can pivot in front of a pistol grip 8036 about a closure trigger
pin 8152 (FIG. 181) engaged laterally across the handle housing
8154, can be depressed to close the staple applying assembly 8012.
In various embodiments, a closure release button 8038 can be
outwardly presented on the handle 8020 when the closure trigger
8026 is clamped such that the release button 8038 can be depressed
to unclamp the closure trigger 8026 and open the staple applying
assembly 8012, as described in greater detail below. A firing
trigger 8034, which can pivot in front of the closure trigger 8026,
can cause the staple applying assembly 8012 to simultaneously sever
and staple tissue clamped therein. In various circumstances, as
described in greater detail below, multiple firing strokes can be
employed using the firing trigger 8034 to reduce the amount of
force required to be applied by the surgeon's hand per stroke. In
certain embodiments, the handle 8020 can comprise rotatable right
and/or left indicator wheels 8040, 8041 (FIG. 181) which can
indicate the firing progress. For instance, full firing travel may
require three full firing strokes of firing trigger 8034 and thus
the indicator wheels 8040, 8041 can rotate up to one-third of a
revolution each per stroke of firing trigger 8034. As described in
greater detail below, a manual firing release lever 8042 can allow
the firing system to be retracted before full firing travel has
been completed, if desired, and, in addition, the firing release
lever 8042 can allow a surgeon, or other clinician, to retract the
firing system in the event that the firing system binds and/or
fails.
[0614] With reference to FIGS. 179 and 181, the elongate shaft 8018
can comprise an outer structure including a longitudinally
reciprocating closure tube 8024 that pivots the anvil 8014 toward
its close position in response to the proximal depression of the
closure trigger 8026 of handle 8020. The elongate channel 8018 can
be connected to the handle 8020 by a frame 8028 (FIG. 181) that is
internal to the closure tube 8024. The frame 8028 can be rotatably
engaged to the handle 8020 so that the rotation of the rotation
knob 8030 (FIG. 179) can rotate the implement portion 8022. With
particular reference to FIG. 181, the rotation knob 8030 can be
comprised of two half-shells which can include one or more inward
projections 8031 that can extend through one or more elongate side
openings 8070 in the closure tube 8024 and engage the frame 8028.
As a result of the above, the rotation knob 8030 and the frame 8028
can be rotated together, or synchronously, such that the rotated
position of knob 8030 determines the rotated position of the
implement portion 8022. In various embodiments, the longitudinal
length of the longer opening 8070 is sufficiently long to allow the
longitudinal closure motion, and opening motion, of the closure
tube 8024. With regard to generating the closure motion of closure
tube 8024, referring primarily to FIGS. 181 and 183, an upper
portion 8160 of the closure trigger 8026 can push forward a closure
yoke 8162 via a closure link 8164. The closure link 8164 is
pivotally attached at its distal end by a closure yoke pin 8166 to
the closure yoke 8162 and is pivotally attached at its proximal end
by a closure link pin 8168. In various embodiments, the closure
trigger 8026 can be urged to an open position by a closure trigger
tension spring 8246 that is connected proximally to the upper
portion 8160 of the closure trigger 8026 and a handle housing 8154
formed by right and left half shells 8156, 8158. The tension force
applied by the tension spring 8246 can be overcome by a closing
force applied to the closure trigger 8026 in order to advance the
yoke 8162, closure link 8164, and the closure tube 8024
distally.
[0615] As the closure trigger 8026 is actuated, or depressed, as
described above, the closure release button 8038 can be positioned
such that the surgeon, or other clinician, can push the closure
release button 8038, if desired, and allow the closure trigger
8026, and the rest of the surgical instrument, to return to an
unactuated state. In various embodiments, the closure release
button 8038 can be connected to a pivoting locking arm 8172 by a
central lateral pivot 8173 such that motion can be transferred
between the release button 8038 and the locking arm 8172. Referring
again to FIG. 181, a compression spring 8174 can bias the closure
release button 8038 proximally, i.e., clockwise about the central
lateral pivot 8173 as viewed from the right and the upper portion
8160 of the closure trigger 8026 can include a proximal crest 8170
with an aft notch 8171. As the closure trigger 8026 is depressed,
the pivoting locking arm 8172 can ride upon the proximal crest 8170
and when the closure trigger 8026 reaches its fully depressed
position, it should be appreciated that the aft notch 8171 is
presented below the pivoting locking arm 8172 which drops into and
locks against the aft notch 8171 under the urging of the
compression spring 8174. At such point, manual depression of the
closure release button 8038 rotates the pivoting locking arm 8172
upward and out of aft notch 8171 thereby unlocking the closure
trigger 8026 and allowing the closure trigger 8026 to be returned
to its unclamped position.
[0616] Once the closure trigger 8026 is proximally clamped, as
discussed above, the firing trigger 8034 can be drawn toward the
pistol grip 8036 in order to advance a firing rod 8032 distally
from the handle 8020. In various embodiments, the firing trigger
8034 can pivot about a firing trigger pin 8202 that laterally
traverses and is engaged with the right and left half shells 8156,
8158 of the handle 8020. The firing trigger 8034, when actuated,
can advance a linked transmission firing mechanism 8150. The linked
transmission firing mechanism 8150 can be urged into a retracted,
unfired, position by a spring 8184 that is, one, attached to the
pistol grip 8036 of the handle 8020 and, two, attached to one of
the links, for example, of the linked transmission firing mechanism
8150 as described in greater detail below. The spring 8184 can
comprise a nonmoving end 8186 connected to the housing 8154 and a
moving end 8188 connected to a proximal end 8190 of a steel band
8192. A distally-disposed end 8194 of the steel band 8192 can be
attached to an attachment feature 8195 on a front link 8196a of a
plurality of links 8196a-8196d that form a linked rack 8200. Linked
rack 8200 can be flexible such that it can readily retract into the
pistol grip 8036 and minimize the length of the handle 8020 and yet
form a straight rigid rack assembly that may transfer a significant
firing force to and/or through the firing rod 8032. As described in
greater detail below, the firing trigger 8034 can be engaged with a
first link 8196a during a first actuation of the firing trigger
8034, engaged with a second link 8196b during a second actuation of
the firing trigger 8034, engaged with a third link 8196c during a
third actuation of the firing trigger 8034, and engaged with a
fourth link 8196d during a fourth actuation of the firing trigger
8034, wherein each actuation of the firing trigger 8034 can advance
the linked rack 8200 distally an incremental amount. In various
embodiments, further to the above, the multiple strokes of firing
trigger 1034 can rotate the right and left indicator gauge wheels
1040, 1041 to indicate the distance in which the linked rack 8200
has been advanced.
[0617] Referring now to FIGS. 181 and 183, an anti-backup mechanism
8250 can prevent the combination tension/compression spring 8184
from retracting the linked rack 8200 between firing strokes. In
various embodiments, a coupling slide tube 8131 abuts the first
link 8196a and connects to the firing rod 8032 to communicate the
firing motion. The firing rod 8032 extends proximally out of a
proximal end of the frame 8028 and through a through hole 8408 of
an anti-backup plate 8266. The through hole 8408 is sized to
slidingly receive the firing rod 8032 when perpendicularly aligned
but to bind when tipped. A lower tab attachment 8271 extends
proximally from a lower lip of the proximal end of the frame 8028,
extending through an aperture 8269 on a lower edge of the
anti-backup plate 8266. This lower tab attachment 8271 draws the
lower portion of the anti-backup plate 8266 proximate to the frame
8028 so that the anti-backup plate 8266 is perpendicular when the
firing rod 8032 is distally advanced and allowed to tip top aft
into a binding state when the firing rod 8032 attempts to retract.
An anti-backup compression spring 8264 is distally constrained by
the proximal end of the frame 8028 and proximally abuts a top
portion of the anti-backup plate 8266, biasing the anti-backup
plate 8266 to a locking state. Opposing the spring bias, an
anti-backup cam tube 8268 slidingly encompasses the coupling slide
tube 8131 and abuts the anti-backup plate 8266. A proximally
projecting anti-backup yoke 8256 attached to the anti-backup cam
tube 8268 extends overtop of the closure yoke 8162.
[0618] Referring to FIG. 181, a link triggered automatic retraction
mechanism 8289 is incorporated into the surgical stapling and
severing instrument 8010 to cause knife retraction at the end of
full firing travel. To that end, the distal link 8196d includes a
tang 8290 that projects upwardly when the distal link 8196d is
advanced into rack channel 8291 (FIG. 181) formed in the closure
yoke 8162. This tang 8290 is aligned to activate a bottom proximal
cam 8292 on an anti-backup release lever 8248 (FIG. 186). With
particular reference to FIGS. 186 and 187, structures formed in the
right and left half shells 8156, 8158 constrain movement of the
anti-backup release lever 8248. A pin receptacle 8296 and circular
pin 8293 formed respectively between right and left half shells
8156, 8158 is received through a longitudinally elongate aperture
8294 formed in the anti-backup release lever 8248 distal to the
bottom proximal cam 8292, thus allowing longitudinal translation as
well as rotation about the circular pin 8293. In the right half
shell 8156, a proximally open channel 8295 includes a proximal
horizontal portion 8295a that communicates with an upwardly and
distally angled portion 8295b that receives a rightward aft pin
8297 (FIG. 187) near the proximal end of the anti-backup release
lever 8248, thus imparting an upward rotation as the anti-backup
release lever 8248 reaches the distal most portion of its
translation. A blocking structure formed in the right half shell
8156 proximal to the anti-backup release lever 8248 prevents
proximal movement thereof once assembled to maintain rightward aft
pin 8297 in the proximally open channel 8295.
[0619] Further to the above, as depicted in FIGS. 187 and 188, a
distal end 8254 of the anti-backup release lever 8248 thus is urged
distally and downwardly, causing a rightward front pin 8298 to drop
into distally open step structure 8299 formed in the right half
shell 8156, which is urged into this engagement by a compression
spring 8300 (FIG. 188) hooked to a leftward hook 8301 on the
anti-backup release lever 8248 between the rightward front pin 8298
and the longitudinally elongate aperture 8294. The other end of the
compression spring 8300 is attached to a hook 8302 (FIGS. 186, 188,
189) formed in the right half shell 8156 in a more proximal and
lower position just above the closure yoke 8266. The compression
spring 8300 thus pulls the distal end 8254 of the anti-backup
release lever 8248 down and aft, which results in the rightward
front pin 8298 locking into the distally open step structure 8299
when distally advanced. Thus, once tripped, referring to FIG. 189,
the anti-backup release lever 8248 remains forward holding the
anti-backup plate 8266 perpendicularly and thus allowing the linked
rack 8200 to be retracted. When the closure yoke 8266 is
subsequently retracted when unclamping the end effector 8012, an
upwardly projecting reset tang 8303 on the closure yoke 8266
contacts a bottom distal cam 8305 of the anti-backup release lever
8248, lifting the rightward front pin 8298 out of the distally open
step structure 8299 so that the anti-backup compression spring 8264
can proximally push the anti-backup cam tube 8268 and the
anti-backup release lever 8248 to their retracted positions (FIG.
186).
[0620] In various embodiments, referring to FIGS. 179 and 189, the
firing trigger 8034 can be operably engaged to the linked rack 8200
in any suitable manner. With particular reference to FIGS. 180 and
185, the firing trigger 8034 pivots about a firing trigger pin 8202
that is connected to the housing 8154. An upper portion 8204 of the
firing trigger 8034 moves distally about the firing trigger pin
8202 as the firing trigger 8034 is depressed towards pistol grip
8036, stretching a proximally placed firing trigger tension spring
8206 (FIG. 181) proximally connected between the upper portion 8204
of the firing trigger 8034 and the housing 8154. The upper portion
8204 of the firing trigger 8034 engages the linked rack 8200 during
each firing trigger depression via a spring biased side pawl
mechanism 8210. When the firing trigger is released, the side pawl
mechanism is disengaged from the linked rack 8200 and the firing
trigger can be returned to an undepressed, or unfired, position. In
use, a ramped right-side track formed by a proximally and
rightwardly facing beveled surface 8284 in each of the links
8196a-8196d is engaged by a side pawl assembly 8285. In particular,
a pawl slide 8270 (FIGS. 181 and 183) has right and left lower
guides 8272 that slide respectively in a left track 8274 (FIG. 181)
formed in the closure yoke 8266 below the rack channel 8291 and a
right track 8275 in a closure yoke rail 8276 that parallels rack
channel 8291 and is attached to a rack channel cover 8277 that
closes a rightwardly open portion of the rack channel 8291 in the
closure yoke 8266 that is distal to the travel of the pawl slide
8270. In FIGS. 181, 182, and 185, a compression spring 8278 is
attached between a hook 8279 on a top proximal position on the
closure yoke rail 8276 and a hook 8280 on a distal right-side of
the pawl slide 8270, which keeps the pawl slide 8270 drawn
proximally into contact with the upper portion 8204 of the firing
trigger 8034.
[0621] With particular reference to FIG. 181, a pawl block 8318
sits on the pawl slide 8270 pivoting about a vertical aft pin 8320
that passes through a left proximal corner of pawl block 8318 and
pawl slide 8270. A kick-out block recess 8322 is formed on a distal
portion of a top surface of the block 8318 to receive a kick-out
block 8324 pivotally pinned therein by a vertical pin 8326 whose
bottom tip extends into a pawl spring recess 8328 on a top surface
of the pawl slide 8270. A pawl spring 8330 in the pawl spring
recess 8328 extends to the right of the vertical front pin 8326
urging the pawl block 8318 to rotate counterclockwise when viewed
from above into engagement with the ramped right-side track 8282. A
small coil spring 8332 in the kick-out block recess 8322 urges the
kick-out block 8324 to rotate clockwise when viewed from above, its
proximal end urged into contact with a contoured lip 8334 formed in
the closure yoke 8266 above the rack channel 8291. As shown in FIG.
184, the stronger mechanical advantage of the pawl spring 8330 over
the small coil spring 8332 means that the pawl block 8318 tends
toward engagement with the kick-out block 8324 rotated clockwise.
In FIG. 185, as the firing trigger 8034 is fully depressed and
begins to be release, the kick-out block 8324 encounters a ridge
8336 in the contoured lip 8334 as the pawl slide 8270 retracts,
forcing the kick-out block 8324 to rotate clockwise when viewed
from above and thereby kicking out the pawl block 8318 from
engagement with the linked rack 8200. The shape of the kick-out
block recess 8322 stops the clockwise rotation of the kick-out
block 8324 to a perpendicular orientation to the contoured lip 8334
maintaining this disengagement during the full retraction and
thereby eliminating a ratcheting noise.
[0622] In FIGS. 181, 183, 190, and 195, the surgical stapling and
severing instrument 8010 can include a manual retraction mechanism
8500 that provides for a manual release of the firing mechanism,
manual retraction, and in one version (FIGS. 196-202) further
performs automatic retraction at the end of full firing travel.
Referring now to FIGS. 181, 190, and 191, in particular, a front
idler gear 8220 is engaged with a toothed upper, left surface 8222
of the linked rack 8200 wherein the front idler gear 8220 also
engages an aft idler gear 8230 having a smaller right-side ratchet
gear 8231. Both the front idler gear 8220 and aft idler gear 8230
are rotatably connected to the handle housing 8154 respectively on
front idler axle 8232 and aft idler axle 8234. Each end of the aft
axle 8232 extend through the respective right and left housing half
shells 8156, 8158 and are attached to the left and right indicator
gauge wheels 8040, 8041 and, since the aft axle 8234 is free
spinning in the handle housing 8154 and has a keyed engagement to
the aft gear 8230, the indicator gauge wheels 8040, 8041 rotate
with the aft gear 8230. The gear relationship between the linked
rack 8200, idler gear 8220 and aft gear 8230 may be advantageously
selected so that the toothed upper surface 8222 has tooth
dimensions that are suitably strong and that the aft gear 8230
makes no more than one revolution during the full firing travel of
the linked transmission firing mechanism 8150. In addition to gear
mechanism 8502 visually indicating the firing travel, or progress,
the gear mechanism 8502 can also be used to manual retract the
knife. In various embodiments, the smaller right-side ratchet gear
8231 of the aft idler gear 8230 extends into a hub 8506 of the
manual retraction lever 8042, specifically aligned with a vertical
longitudinally-aligned slot 8508 (FIG. 190) bisecting the hub 8506.
A lateral through hole 8510 of the hub 8506 communicates with an
upper recess 8512. A front portion 8514 is shaped to receive a
proximally directed locking pawl 8516 that pivots about a rightward
lateral pin 8518 formed in a distal end of the upper recess 8512.
An aft portion 8520 is shaped to receive an L-shaped spring tab
8522 that urges the locking pawl 8516 downward into engagement with
the right-side smaller ratchet gear 8231. A hold-up structure 8524
(FIGS. 186 and 193) projects from the right half shell 8156 into
the upper recess 8512 holding up the locking pawl 8516 from
engaging the smaller right-side ratchet gear 8231 when the manual
retraction lever 8042 is down (FIG. 193). A coil spring 8525 (FIG.
181) urges the manual retraction lever 8042 down.
[0623] In use, as depicted in FIGS. 192 and 193, the combination
tension/compression spring 8184 may become disconnected with the
linked rack distally positioned. In FIGS. 194 and 195, as the
manual retraction lever 8042 is raised, the locking pawl 8516
rotates clockwise and no longer is held up by the hold-up structure
8524 and engages the smaller right-side ratcheting gear 8231,
rotating the aft idler gear 8230 clockwise when viewed from the
left. Thus, the forward idler gear 8220 responds counterclockwise
retracting the linked rack 8200. In addition, a rightward curved
ridge 8510 projects out from the hub 8506, sized to contact and
distally move the anti-backup release lever 8248 to release the
anti-backup mechanism 8250 as the manual retraction lever 8042 is
rotated.
[0624] In FIGS. 196-202, an automatic retraction mechanism 8600 for
a surgical stapling and severing instrument 8010a can incorporate
automatic retraction at the end of full firing travel into a front
idler gear 8220a having a tooth 8602 that moves within a circular
groove 8604 in a cam wheel 8606 until encountering a blockage 8608
after nearly a full rotation corresponding to three firing strokes.
In such circumstances, rightward ridge 8610 is rotated upward into
contact a bottom cam recess 8612 to distally move an anti-backup
release lever 8248a. With particular reference to FIG. 197, the
anti-backup release lever 8248a includes the distal end 8254 that
operates as previously described. The circular pin 8293 and pin
receptacle 8296 formed between right and left half shells 8156,
8158 is received through a generally rectangular aperture 8294a
formed in the anti-backup release lever 8248a aft of the bottom cam
8192, thus allowing longitudinal translation as well as downward
locking motion of the distal end 8254 of the anti-backup release
lever 8248a. In the right half shell 8156, a horizontal proximally
open channel 8295a receives the rightward aft pin 8297 near the
proximal end of the anti-backup release lever 8248a.
[0625] In operation, before firing in FIGS. 198, 198A, the linked
rack 8200 and the anti-backup cam tube 8268 are in a retracted
position, locking the anti-backup mechanism 8250 as the anti-backup
compression spring 8264 proximally tips the anti-backup plate 8266.
The automatic retraction mechanism 8600 is at an initial state with
the anti-backup release lever 8248a retracted with link 8196a in
contact with the forward idler gear 8220a. The tooth 8602 is at a
six o'clock position with full travel of the circular groove 8604
progressing counterclockwise thereof with the rightward ridge 8610
just proximal to the tooth 8602. In FIGS. 199, 199A, one firing
stroke has occurred moving up one distal link 8196b into contact
with the forward idler gear 8220a. The tooth 8602 has progressed
one third of a turn through the circular groove 8604 of the
immobile cam wheel 8606. In FIGS. 200, 200A, a second firing stroke
has occurred moving up one more link 8196c into contact with the
forward idler gear 8220a. The tooth 8602 has progressed two thirds
of a turn through the circular groove 8604 of the immobile cam
wheel 8606. In FIGS. 201, 201A, a third firing stroke has occurred
moving up one distal link 8196d into contact with the forward idler
gear 8220a. The tooth 8602 has progressed fully around the circular
groove 8604 into contact with the blockage 8608 initiating
counterclockwise rotation (when viewed from the right) of the cam
wheel 8606 bringing the rightward ridge 8608 into contact with the
anti-backup release lever 8248a. In FIG. 202, the anti-backup
release lever 8248a has moved distally in response thereto, locking
the rightward front pin 8298 into the distally open step structure
8299 and releasing the anti-backup mechanism 8250. Similar surgical
stapling instruments are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,083,075,
which issued on Aug. 1, 2006, the entire disclosure of which is
incorporated by reference herein.
[0626] Referring to FIG. 203, the staple applying assembly 9012 of
a surgical stapling instrument 9010 accomplishes the functions of
clamping onto tissue, driving staples and severing tissue by two
distinct motions transferred longitudinally down the shaft 9016
relative to a shaft frame 9070. This shaft frame 9070 is proximally
attached to a handle of a surgical stapling instrument and is
coupled thereto for rotation about a longitudinal axis. An
illustrative multi-stroke handle for the surgical stapling and
severing instrument is described in greater detail in the co-owned
U.S. patent application entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT
INCORPORATING A MULTISTROKE FIRING POSITION INDICATOR AND
RETRACTION MECHANISM, Ser. No. 10/674,026, now U.S. Pat. No.
7,364,061, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety. Other applications consistent with the
present invention may incorporate a single firing stroke, such as
described in commonly-owned U.S. patent application SURGICAL
STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING
SYSTEMS, Ser. No. 10/441,632, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,000,818, the
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
[0627] With particular reference to FIG. 204, the distal end of the
shaft frame 9070 is attached to the staple channel 9018. The anvil
9022 has a proximal pivoting end 9072 that is pivotally received
within a proximal end 9074 of the staple channel 9018, just distal
to its engagement to the shaft frame 9070. When the anvil 9022 is
pivoted downwardly, the anvil 9022 moves a tissue contacting
surface 9028 and forming pockets 9026 toward an opposing staple
cartridge, described in greater detail further below. The pivoting
end 9072 of the anvil 9022 includes a closure feature 9076
proximate but distal to its pivotal attachment with the staple
channel 9018. Thus, a closure tube 9078, whose distal end includes
a horseshoe aperture 9080 that engages this closure feature 9076,
selectively imparts an opening motion to the anvil 9022 during
proximal longitudinal motion and a closing motion to the anvil 9022
during distal longitudinal motion of the closure tube 9078 sliding
over the shaft frame 9070 in response to a closure trigger, similar
to the above. The shaft frame 9070 encompasses and guides a firing
motion from the handle through a longitudinally reciprocating,
two-piece knife and firing bar 9090. In particular, the shaft frame
9070 includes a longitudinal firing bar slot 9092 that receives a
proximal portion of the two-piece knife and firing bar 9090,
specifically a laminate tapered firing bar 9094. It should be
appreciated that the laminated tapered firing bar 9094 may be
substituted with a solid firing bar and/or any other suitable
materials.
[0628] An E-beam 9102 is the distal portion of the two-piece knife
and firing bar 9090, which facilitates separate closure and firing
as well as spacing of the anvil 9022 from the elongate staple
channel 9018 during firing. With particular reference to FIGS. 204
and 205, in addition to any attachment treatment such as brazing or
an adhesive, the knife and firing bar 9090 are formed of a female
vertical attachment aperture 9104 proximally formed in the E-beam
9102 that receives a corresponding male attachment member 9106
distally presented by the laminated tapered firing bar 9094,
allowing each portion to be formed of a selected material and
process suitable for their disparate functions (e.g., strength,
flexibility, friction). The E-beam 9102 may be advantageously
formed of a material having suitable material properties for
forming a pair of top pins 9110, a pair of middle pins 9112 and a
bottom pin or foot 9114, as well as being able to acquire a sharp
cutting edge 9116. In addition, integrally formed and proximally
projecting top guide 9118 and middle guide 9120 bracketing each
vertical end of the cutting edge 9116 further define a tissue
staging area 9122 assisting in guiding tissue to the sharp cutting
edge 9116 prior to being severed. The middle guide 9120 also serves
to engage and fire the staple applying apparatus 9012 by abutting a
stepped central member 9124 of a wedge sled 9126 (FIG. 206) that
effects staple formation by the staple applying assembly 9012, as
described in greater detail below. Forming these features (e.g.,
top pins 9110, middle pins 9112, and bottom foot 9114) integrally
with the E-beam 9102 facilitates manufacturing at tighter
tolerances relative to one another as compared to being assembled
from a plurality of parts, ensuring desired operation during firing
and/or effective interaction with various lockout features of the
staple applying assembly 9012.
[0629] In FIGS. 207 and 208, the staple applying assembly 9012 is
shown open, with the E-beam 9102 fully retracted. During assembly,
the lower foot 9114 of the E-beam 9102 is dropped through a widened
hole 9130 in the staple channel 9018 and the E-beam 9102 is then
advanced such that the E-beam 9102 slides distally along a lower
track 9132 formed in the staple channel 9018. In particular, the
lower track 9132 includes a narrow slot 9133 that opens up as a
widened slot 9134 on an undersurface of the staple channel 9018 to
form an inverted T-shape in lateral cross section, as depicted
particularly in FIGS. 208 and 209, which communicates with the
widened hole 9130. Once assembled, the components proximally
coupled to the laminate tapered firing bar 9094 do not allow the
lower foot 9114 to proximally travel again to the widened hole 9130
to permit disengagement. Referring to FIG. 210, the laminate
tapered firing bar 9094 facilitates insertion of the staple
applying assembly 9012 through a trocar. In particular, a more
distal, downward projection 9136 raises the E-beam 9102 when fully
retracted. This is accomplished by placement of the downward
projection 9136 at a point where it cams upwardly on a proximal
edge of the widened hole 9130 in the staple channel 9018. Referring
now to FIG. 211, the laminate tapered firing bar 9094 also enhances
operation of certain lockout features that may be incorporated into
the staple channel 9018 by including a more proximal upward
projection 9138 that is urged downwardly by the shaft frame 9070
during an initial portion of the firing travel. In particular, a
lateral bar 9140 is defined between a pair of square apertures 9142
in the shaft frame 9070 (FIG. 204). A clip spring 9144 that
encompasses the lateral bar 9140 downwardly urges a portion of the
laminate tapered firing bar 9094 projecting distally out of the
longitudinal firing bar slot 9092, which ensures certain
advantageous lockout features are engaged when appropriate. This
urging is more pronounced or confined solely to that portion of the
firing travel when the upward projection 9138 contacts the clip
spring 9144.
[0630] In FIGS. 207 and 208, the E-beam 9102 is retracted with the
top pins 9110 thereof residing within an anvil pocket 9150 near the
pivoting proximal end of the anvil 9022. A downwardly open vertical
anvil slot 9152 (FIG. 203) laterally widens in the anvil 9022 into
an anvil internal track 9154 that captures the top pins 9110 of the
E-beam 9102 as they distally advance during firing, as depicted in
FIGS. 210 and 211, affirmatively spacing the anvil 9022 from the
staple channel 9018. Thus, with the E-beam 9102 retracted, the
surgeon is able to repeatably open and close the staple applying
assembly 9012 until satisfied with the placement and orientation of
tissue captured therein for stapling and severing, yet the E-beam
9102 assists in proper positioning of tissue even for a staple
applying assembly 9012 of reduced diameter and correspondingly
reduced rigidity. In FIGS. 203, 204, 206, 207, 209, and 215, the
staple applying assembly 9012 is shown with the replaceable staple
cartridge 9020 that includes the wedge sled 9126. Longitudinally
aligned and parallel plurality of downwardly open wedge slots 9202
(FIG. 209) receive respective wedges 9204 integral to the wedge
sled 9126. In FIGS. 209-211, the wedge sled 9126 thus cams upwardly
a plurality of staple drivers 9206 that are vertically slidable
within staple driver recesses 9208. In this illustrative version,
each staple driver 9206 includes two vertical prongs, each
translating upwardly into a respective staple hole 9210, or cavity
9024, to upwardly force out and deform a staple 9023 resting
thereupon against a staple forming surface 9214 (FIG. 211) of the
anvil 9022. A central firing recess 9216 (FIG. 204) defined within
the staple cartridge 9020 proximate to the staple channel 9018
allows the passage of the bottom, horizontal portion 9218 (FIG.
206) of the wedge sled 9126 as well as the middle pins 9112 of the
E-beam 9102. Specifically, a staple cartridge tray 9220 (FIGS. 204,
209) attaches to and underlies a polymer staple cartridge body 9222
that has the staple driver recesses 9208, staple holes 9210, and
central firing recess 9216 formed therein. As staples 9023 are thus
formed to either side, the sharp cutting edge 9116 enters a
vertical through slot 9230 passing through the longitudinal axis of
the staple cartridge 9020, excepting only a most distal end
thereof.
[0631] Firing the staple applying assembly 9012 begins as depicted
in FIG. 211 with the two-piece knife and firing bar 9090 proximally
drawn until the downward projection 9136 cams the middle guide 9120
on the E-beam 9102 upward and aft, allowing a new staple cartridge
9020 to be inserted into the staple channel 9018 when the anvil
9022 is open as depicted in FIGS. 203 and 207. In FIG. 212, the
two-piece knife and firing bar 9090 has been distally advanced a
small distance, allowing the downward projection 9136 to drop into
the widened hole 9130 of the lower track 9132 under the urging of
the clip spring 9144 against the upward projection 9138 of the
laminate tapered firing bar 9094. The middle guide 9120 prevents
further downward rotation by resting upon the stepped central
member 9124 of the wedge sled 9126, thus maintaining the middle pin
9112 of the E-beam within the central firing recess 9216. In FIG.
213, the two-piece knife and firing bar 9090 has been distally
fired, advancing the wedge sled 9126 to cause formation of staples
9023 while severing tissue 9242 clamped between the anvil 9022 and
staple cartridge 9020 with the sharp cutting edge 9116. Thereafter,
in FIG. 214, the two-piece knife and firing bar 9090 is retracted,
leaving the wedge sled 9126 distally positioned. In FIG. 215, the
middle pin 9112 is allowed to translate down into a lockout recess
9240 formed in the staple channel 9018 (also see FIGS. 208, 211).
Thus, the operator would receive a tactile indication as the middle
pin 9112 encounters the distal edge of the lockout recess 9240 when
the wedge sled 9126 (not shown in FIG. 215) is not proximally
positioned (i.e., missing staple cartridge 9020 or spent staple
cartridge 9020). Similar surgical stapling instruments are
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,380,696, which issued on Jun. 3, 2008,
the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference
herein.
[0632] In various embodiments, as described above, a staple
cartridge can comprise a cartridge body including a plurality of
staple cavities defined therein. The cartridge body can comprise a
deck and a top deck surface wherein each staple cavity can define
an opening in the deck surface. As also described above, a staple
can be positioned within each staple cavity such that the staples
are stored within the cartridge body until they are ejected
therefrom. Prior to being ejected from the cartridge body, in
various embodiments, the staples can be contained with the
cartridge body such that the staples do not protrude above the deck
surface. As the staples are positioned below the deck surface, in
such embodiments, the possibility of the staples becoming damaged
and/or prematurely contacting the targeted tissue can be reduced.
In various circumstances, the staples can be moved between an
unfired position in which they do not protrude from the cartridge
body and a fired position in which they have emerged from the
cartridge body and can contact an anvil positioned opposite the
staple cartridge. In various embodiments, the anvil, and/or the
forming pockets defined within the anvil, can be positioned a
predetermined distance above the deck surface such that, as the
staples are being deployed from the cartridge body, the staples are
deformed to a predetermined formed height. In some circumstances,
the thickness of the tissue captured between the anvil and the
staple cartridge may vary and, as a result, thicker tissue may be
captured within certain staples while thinner tissue may be
captured within certain other staples. In either event, the
clamping pressure, or force, applied to the tissue by the staples
may vary from staple to staple or vary between a staple on one end
of a staple row and a staple on the other end of the staple row,
for example. In certain circumstances, the gap between the anvil
and the staple cartridge deck can be controlled such that the
staples apply a certain minimum clamping pressure within each
staple. In some such circumstances, however, significant variation
of the clamping pressure within different staples may still
exist.
[0633] In various embodiments described herein, a staple cartridge
can comprise means for compensating for the thickness of the tissue
captured within the staples deployed from the staple cartridge. In
various embodiments, referring to FIG. 216, a staple cartridge,
such as staple cartridge 10000, for example, can include a rigid
first portion, such as support portion 10010, for example, and a
compressible second portion, such as tissue thickness compensator
10020, for example. In at least one embodiment, referring primarily
to FIG. 218, the support portion 10010 can comprise a cartridge
body, a top deck surface 10011, and a plurality of staple cavities
10012 wherein, similar to the above, each staple cavity 10012 can
define an opening in the deck surface 10011. A staple 10030, for
example, can be removably positioned in each staple cavity 10012.
In at least one such embodiment, referring primarily to FIG. 245
and as described in greater detail below, each staple 10030 can
comprise a base 10031 and one or more legs 10032 extending from the
base 10031. Prior to the staples 10030 being deployed, as also
described in greater detail below, the bases 10031 of the staples
10030 can be supported by staple drivers positioned within the
support portion 10010 and, concurrently, the legs 10032 of the
staples 10030 can be at least partially contained within the staple
cavities 10012. In various embodiments, the staples 10030 can be
deployed between an unfired position and a fired position such that
the legs 10032 move through the tissue thickness compensator 10020,
penetrate through a top surface of the tissue thickness compensator
10020, penetrate the tissue T, and contact an anvil positioned
opposite the staple cartridge 10000. As the legs 10032 are deformed
against the anvil, the legs 10032 of each staple 10030 can capture
a portion of the tissue thickness compensator 10020 and a portion
of the tissue T within each staple 10030 and apply a compressive
force to the tissue. Further to the above, the legs 10032 of each
staple 10030 can be deformed downwardly toward the base 10031 of
the staple to form a staple entrapment area 10039 in which the
tissue T and the tissue thickness compensator 10020 can be
captured. In various circumstances, the staple entrapment area
10039 can be defined between the inner surfaces of the deformed
legs 10032 and the inner surface of the base 10031. The size of the
entrapment area for a staple can depend on several factors such as
the length of the legs, the diameter of the legs, the width of the
base, and/or the extent in which the legs are deformed, for
example.
[0634] In previous embodiments, a surgeon was often required to
select the appropriate staples having the appropriate staple height
for the tissue being stapled. For example, a surgeon could select
tall staples for use with thick tissue and short staples for use
with thin tissue. In some circumstances, however, the tissue being
stapled did not have a consistent thickness and, thus, some staples
were unable to achieve the desired fired configuration. For
example, FIG. 250 illustrates a tall staple used in thin tissue.
Referring now to FIG. 251, when a tissue thickness compensator,
such as tissue thickness compensator 10020, for example, is used
with thin tissue, for example, the larger staple may be formed to a
desired fired configuration.
[0635] Owing to the compressibility of the tissue thickness
compensator, the tissue thickness compensator can compensate for
the thickness of the tissue captured within each staple. More
particularly, referring now to FIGS. 245 and 246, a tissue
thickness compensator, such as tissue thickness compensator 10020,
for example, can consume larger and/or smaller portions of the
staple entrapment area 10039 of each staple 10030 depending on the
thickness and/or type of tissue contained within the staple
entrapment area 10039. For example, if thinner tissue T is captured
within a staple 10030, the tissue thickness compensator 10020 can
consume a larger portion of the staple entrapment area 10039 as
compared to circumstances where thicker tissue T is captured within
the staple 10030. Correspondingly, if thicker tissue T is captured
within a staple 10030, the tissue thickness compensator 10020 can
consume a smaller portion of the staple entrapment area 10039 as
compared to the circumstances where thinner tissue T is captured
within the staple 10030. In this way, the tissue thickness
compensator can compensate for thinner tissue and/or thicker tissue
and assure that a compressive pressure is applied to the tissue
irrespective, or at least substantially irrespective, of the tissue
thickness captured within the staples. In addition to the above,
the tissue thickness compensator 10020 can compensate for different
types, or compressibilities, of tissues captured within different
staples 10030. Referring now to FIG. 246, the tissue thickness
compensator 10020 can apply a compressive force to vascular tissue
T which can include vessels V and, as a result, restrict the flow
of blood through the less compressible vessels V while still
applying a desired compressive pressure to the surrounding tissue
T. In various circumstances, further to the above, the tissue
thickness compensator 10020 can also compensate for malformed
staples. Referring to FIG. 247, the malformation of various staples
10030 can result in larger staple entrapment areas 10039 being
defined within such staples. Owing to the resiliency of the tissue
thickness compensator 10020, referring now to FIG. 248, the tissue
thickness compensator 10020 positioned within malformed staples
10030 may still apply a sufficient compressive pressure to the
tissue T eventhough the staple entrapment areas 10039 defined
within such malformed staples 10030 may be enlarged. In various
circumstances, the tissue thickness compensator 10020 located
intermediate adjacent staples 10030 can be biased against the
tissue T by properly-formed staples 10030 surrounding a malformed
staple 10030 and, as a result, apply a compressive pressure to the
tissue surrounding and/or captured within the malformed staple
10030, for example. In various circumstances, a tissue thickness
compensator can compensate for different tissue densities which can
arise due to calcifications, fibrous areas, and/or tissue that has
been previously stapled or treated, for example.
[0636] In various embodiments, a fixed, or unchangeable, tissue gap
can be defined between the support portion and the anvil and, as a
result, the staples may be deformed to a predetermined height
regardless of the thickness of the tissue captured within the
staples. When a tissue thickness compensator is used with these
embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator can adapt to the
tissue captured between the anvil and the support portion staple
cartridge and, owing to the resiliency of the tissue thickness
compensator, the tissue thickness compensator can apply an
additional compressive pressure to the tissue. Referring now to
FIGS. 252-257, a staple 10030 has been formed to a predefined
height H. With regard to FIG. 252, a tissue thickness compensator
has not been utilized and the tissue T consumes the entirety of the
staple entrapment area 10039. With regard to FIG. 259, a portion of
a tissue thickness compensator 10020 has been captured within the
staple 10030, compressed the tissue T, and consumed at least a
portion of the staple entrapment area 10039. Referring now to FIG.
254, thin tissue T has been captured within the staple 10030. In
this embodiment, the compressed tissue T has a height of
approximately 2/9H and the compressed tissue thickness compensator
10020 has a height of approximately 7/9H, for example. Referring
now to FIG. 255, tissue T having an intermediate thickness has been
captured within the staple 10030. In this embodiment, the
compressed tissue T has a height of approximately 4/9H and the
compressed tissue thickness compensator 10020 has a height of
approximately 5/9H, for example. Referring now to FIG. 256, tissue
T having an intermediate thickness has been captured within the
staple 10030. In this embodiment, the compressed tissue T has a
height of approximately 2/3H and the compressed tissue thickness
compensator 10020 has a height of approximately 1/3H, for example.
Referring now to FIG. 255, thick tissue T has been captured within
the staple 10030. In this embodiment, the compressed tissue T has a
height of approximately 8/9H and the compressed tissue thickness
compensator 10020 has a height of approximately 1/9H, for example.
In various circumstances, the tissue thickness compensator can
comprise a compressed height which comprises approximately 10% of
the staple entrapment height, approximately 20% of the staple
entrapment height, approximately 30% of the staple entrapment
height, approximately 40% of the staple entrapment height,
approximately 50% of the staple entrapment height, approximately
60% of the staple entrapment height, approximately 70% of the
staple entrapment height, approximately 80% of the staple
entrapment height, and/or approximately 90% of the staple
entrapment height, for example.
[0637] In various embodiments, the staples 10030 can comprise any
suitable unformed height. In certain embodiments, the staples 10030
can comprise an unformed height between approximately 2 mm and
approximately 4.8 mm, for example. The staples 10030 can comprise
an unformed height of approximately 2.0 mm, approximately 2.5 mm,
approximately 3.0 mm, approximately 3.4 mm, approximately 3.5 mm,
approximately 3.8 mm, approximately 4.0 mm, approximately 4.1 mm,
and/or approximately 4.8 mm, for example. In various embodiments,
the height H to which the staples can be deformed can be dictated
by the distance between the deck surface 10011 of the support
portion 10010 and the opposing anvil. In at least one embodiment,
the distance between the deck surface 10011 and the
tissue-contacting surface of the anvil can be approximately
0.097'', for example. The height H can also be dictated by the
depth of the forming pockets defined within the anvil. In at least
one embodiment, the forming pockets can have a depth measured from
the tissue-contacting surface, for example. In various embodiments,
as described in greater detail below, the staple cartridge 10000
can further comprise staple drivers which can lift the staples
10030 toward the anvil and, in at least one embodiment, lift, or
"overdrive", the staples above the deck surface 10011. In such
embodiments, the height H to which the staples 10030 are formed can
also be dictated by the distance in which the staples 10030 are
overdriven. In at least one such embodiment, the staples 10030 can
be overdriven by approximately 0.028'', for example, and can result
in the staples 10030 being formed to a height of approximately
0.189'', for example. In various embodiments, the staples 10030 can
be formed to a height of approximately 0.8 mm, approximately 1.0
mm, approximately 1.5 mm, approximately 1.8 mm, approximately 2.0
mm, and/or approximately 2.25 mm, for example. In certain
embodiments, the staples can be formed to a height between
approximately 2.25 mm and approximately 3.0 mm, for example.
Further to the above, the height of the staple entrapment area of a
staple can be determined by the formed height of the staple and the
width, or diameter, of the wire comprising the staple. In various
embodiments, the height of the staple entrapment area 10039 of a
staple 10030 can comprise the formed height H of the staple less
two diameter widths of the wire. In certain embodiments, the staple
wire can comprise a diameter of approximately 0.0089'', for
example. In various embodiments, the staple wire can comprise a
diameter between approximately 0.0069'' and approximately 0.0119'',
for example. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the formed
height H of a staple 10030 can be approximately 0.189'' and the
staple wire diameter can be approximately 0.0089'' resulting in a
staple entrapment height of approximately 0.171'', for example.
[0638] In various embodiments, further to the above, the tissue
thickness compensator can comprise an uncompressed, or
pre-deployed, height and can be configured to deform to one of a
plurality of compressed heights. In certain embodiments, the tissue
thickness compensator can comprise an uncompressed height of
approximately 0.125'', for example. In various embodiments, the
tissue thickness compensator can comprise an uncompressed height of
greater than or equal to approximately 0.080'', for example. In at
least one embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator can comprise
an uncompressed, or pre-deployed, height which is greater than the
unfired height of the staples. In at least one embodiment, the
uncompressed, or pre-deployed, height of the tissue thickness
compensator can be approximately 10% taller, approximately 20%
taller, approximately 30% taller, approximately 40% taller,
approximately 50% taller, approximately 60% taller, approximately
70% taller, approximately 80% taller, approximately 90% taller,
and/or approximately 100% taller than the unfired height of the
staples, for example. In at least one embodiment, the uncompressed,
or pre-deployed, height of the tissue thickness compensator can be
up to approximately 100% taller than the unfired height of the
staples, for example. In certain embodiments, the uncompressed, or
pre-deployed, height of the tissue thickness compensator can be
over 100% taller than the unfired height of the staples, for
example. In at least one embodiment, the tissue thickness
compensator can comprise an uncompressed height which is equal to
the unfired height of the staples. In at least one embodiment, the
tissue thickness compensator can comprise an uncompressed height
which is less than the unfired height of the staples. In at least
one embodiment, the uncompressed, or pre-deployed, height of the
thickness compensator can be approximately 10% shorter,
approximately 20% shorter, approximately 30% shorter, approximately
40% shorter, approximately 50% shorter, approximately 60% shorter,
approximately 70% shorter, approximately 80% shorter, and/or
approximately 90% shorter than the unfired height of the staples,
for example. In various embodiments, the compressible second
portion can comprise an uncompressed height which is taller than an
uncompressed height of the tissue T being stapled. In certain
embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator can comprise an
uncompressed height which is equal to an uncompressed height of the
tissue T being stapled. In various embodiments, the tissue
thickness compensator can comprise an uncompressed height which is
shorter than an uncompressed height of the tissue T being
stapled.
[0639] As described above, a tissue thickness compensator can be
compressed within a plurality of formed staples regardless of
whether thick tissue or thin tissue is captured within the staples.
In at least one exemplary embodiment, the staples within a staple
line, or row, can be deformed such that the staple entrapment area
of each staple comprises a height of approximately 2.0 mm, for
example, wherein the tissue T and the tissue thickness compensator
can be compressed within this height. In certain circumstances, the
tissue T can comprise a compressed height of approximately 1.75 mm
within the staple entrapment area while the tissue thickness
compensator can comprise a compressed height of approximately 0.25
mm within the staple entrapment area, thereby totaling the
approximately 2.0 mm staple entrapment area height, for example. In
certain circumstances, the tissue T can comprise a compressed
height of approximately 1.50 mm within the staple entrapment area
while the tissue thickness compensator can comprise a compressed
height of approximately 0.50 mm within the staple entrapment area,
thereby totaling the approximately 2.0 mm staple entrapment area
height, for example. In certain circumstances, the tissue T can
comprise a compressed height of approximately 1.25 mm within the
staple entrapment area while the tissue thickness compensator can
comprise a compressed height of approximately 0.75 mm within the
staple entrapment area, thereby totaling the approximately 2.0 mm
staple entrapment area height, for example. In certain
circumstances, the tissue T can comprise a compressed height of
approximately 1.0 mm within the staple entrapment area while the
tissue thickness compensator can comprise a compressed height of
approximately 1.0 mm within the staple entrapment area, thereby
totaling the approximately 2.0 mm staple entrapment area height,
for example. In certain circumstances, the tissue T can comprise a
compressed height of approximately 0.75 mm within the staple
entrapment area while the tissue thickness compensator can comprise
a compressed height of approximately 1.25 mm within the staple
entrapment area, thereby totaling the approximately 2.0 mm staple
entrapment area height, for example. In certain circumstances, the
tissue T can comprise a compressed height of approximately 1.50 mm
within the staple entrapment area while the tissue thickness
compensator can comprise a compressed height of approximately 0.50
mm within the staple entrapment area, thereby totaling the
approximately 2.0 mm staple entrapment area height, for example. In
certain circumstances, the tissue T can comprise a compressed
height of approximately 0.25 mm within the staple entrapment area
while the tissue thickness compensator can comprise a compressed
height of approximately 1.75 mm within the staple entrapment area,
thereby totaling the approximately 2.0 mm staple entrapment area
height, for example.
[0640] In various embodiments, further to the above, the tissue
thickness compensator can comprise an uncompressed height which is
less than the fired height of the staples. In certain embodiments,
the tissue thickness compensator can comprise an uncompressed
height which is equal to the fired height of the staples. In
certain other embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator can
comprise an uncompressed height which is taller than the fired
height of the staples. In at least one such embodiment, the
uncompressed height of a tissue thickness compensator can comprise
a thickness which is approximately 110% of the formed staple
height, approximately 120% of the formed staple height,
approximately 130% of the formed staple height, approximately 140%
of the formed staple height, approximately 150% of the formed
staple height, approximately 160% of the formed staple height,
approximately 170% of the formed staple height, approximately 180%
of the formed staple height, approximately 190% of the formed
staple height, and/or approximately 200% of the formed staple
height, for example. In certain embodiments, the tissue thickness
compensator can comprise an uncompressed height which is more than
twice the fired height of the staples. In various embodiments, the
tissue thickness compensator can comprise a compressed height which
is from approximately 85% to approximately 150% of the formed
staple height, for example. In various embodiments, as described
above, the tissue thickness compensator can be compressed between
an uncompressed thickness and a compressed thickness. In certain
embodiments, the compressed thickness of a tissue thickness
compensator can be approximately 10% of its uncompressed thickness,
approximately 20% of its uncompressed thickness, approximately 30%
of its uncompressed thickness, approximately 40% of its
uncompressed thickness, approximately 50% of its uncompressed
thickness, approximately 60% of its uncompressed thickness,
approximately 70% of its uncompressed thickness, approximately 80%
of its uncompressed thickness, and/or approximately 90% of its
uncompressed thickness, for example. In various embodiments, the
uncompressed thickness of the tissue thickness compensator can be
approximately two times, approximately ten times, approximately
fifty times, and/or approximately one hundred times thicker than
its compressed thickness, for example. In at least one embodiment,
the compressed thickness of the tissue thickness compensator can be
between approximately 60% and approximately 99% of its uncompressed
thickness. In at least one embodiment, the uncompressed thickness
of the tissue thickness compensator can be at least 50% thicker
than its compressed thickness. In at least one embodiment, the
uncompressed thickness of the tissue thickness compensator can be
up to one hundred times thicker than its compressed thickness. In
various embodiments, the compressible second portion can be
elastic, or at least partially elastic, and can bias the tissue T
against the deformed legs of the staples. In at least one such
embodiment, the compressible second portion can resiliently expand
between the tissue T and the base of the staple in order to push
the tissue T against the legs of the staple. In certain
embodiments, discussed in further detail below, the tissue
thickness compensator can be positioned intermediate the tissue T
and the deformed staple legs. In various circumstances, as a result
of the above, the tissue thickness compensator can be configured to
consume any gaps within the staple entrapment area.
[0641] In various embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator may
comprise a polymeric composition. The polymeric composition may
comprise one or more synthetic polymer and/or one or more
non-synthetic polymer. The synthetic polymer may comprise a
synthetic absorbable polymer and/or a synthetic non-absorbable
polymer. In various embodiments, the polymeric composition may
comprise a biocompatible foam, for example. The biocompatible foam
may comprise a porous, open cell foam and/or a porous, closed cell
foam, for example. The biocompatible foam can have a uniform pore
morphology or may have a gradient pore morphology (i.e. small pores
gradually increasing in size to large pores across the thickness of
the foam in one direction). In various embodiments, the polymeric
composition may comprise one or more of a porous scaffold, a porous
matrix, a gel matrix, a hydrogel matrix, a solution matrix, a
filamentous matrix, a tubular matrix, a composite matrix, a
membranous matrix, a biostable polymer, and a biodegradable
polymer, and combinations thereof. For example, the tissue
thickness compensator may comprise a foam reinforced by a
filamentous matrix or may comprise a foam having an additional
hydrogel layer that expands in the presence of bodily fluids to
further provide the compression on the tissue. In various
embodiments, a tissue thickness compensator could also be comprised
of a coating on a material and/or a second or third layer that
expands in the presence of bodily fluids to further provide the
compression on the tissue. Such a layer could be a hydrogel that
could be a synthetic and/or naturally derived material and could be
either biodurable and/or biodegradable, for example. In certain
embodiments, a tissue thickness compensator could be reinforced
with fibrous non-woven materials or fibrous mesh type elements, for
example, that can provide additional flexibility, stiffness, and/or
strength. In various embodiments, a tissue thickness compensator
that has a porous morphology which exhibits a gradient structure
such as, for example, small pores on one surface and larger pores
on the other surface. Such morphology could be more optimal for
tissue in-growth or hemostatic behavior. Further, the gradient
could be also compositional with a varying bio-absorption profile.
A short term absorption profile may be preferred to address
hemostasis while a long term absorption profile may address better
tissue healing without leakages.
[0642] Examples of non-synthetic polymers include, but are not
limited to, lypholized polysaccharide, glycoprotein, elastin,
proteoglycan, gelatin, collagen, and oxidized regenerated cellulose
(ORC). Examples of synthetic absorbable polymers include, but are
not limited to, poly(lactic acid) (PLA), poly(L-lactic acid)
(PLLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), polyglycolic acid (PGA),
poly(trimethylene carbonate) (TMC), polyethylene terephthalate
(PET), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), a copolymer of glycolide and
.epsilon.-caprolactone (PGCL), a copolymer of glycolide
and-trimethylene carbonate, poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS),
polydioxanone, poly(orthoesters), polyanhydrides, polysaccharides,
poly(ester-amides), tyrosine-based polyarylates, tyrosine-based
polyiminocarbonates, tyrosine-based polycarbonates,
poly(D,L-lactide-urethane), poly(B-hydroxybutyrate),
poly(E-caprolactone), polyethyleneglycol (PEG),
poly[bis(carboxylatophenoxy) phosphazene], poly(amino acids),
pseudo-poly(amino acids), absorbable polyurethanes, and
combinations thereof. In various embodiments, the polymeric
composition may comprise from approximately 50% to approximately
90% by weight of the polymeric composition of PLLA and
approximately 50% to approximately 10% by weight of the polymeric
composition of PCL, for example. In at least one embodiment, the
polymeric composition may comprise approximately 70% by weight of
PLLA and approximately 30% by weight of PCL, for example. In
various embodiments, the polymeric composition may comprise from
approximately 55% to approximately 85% by weight of the polymeric
composition of PGA and 15% to 45% by weight of the polymeric
composition of PCL, for example. In at least one embodiment, the
polymeric composition may comprise approximately 65% by weight of
PGA and approximately 35% by weight of PCL, for example. In various
embodiments, the polymeric composition may comprise from
approximately 90% to approximately 95% by weight of the polymeric
composition of PGA and approximately 5% to approximately 10% by
weight of the polymeric composition of PLA, for example.
[0643] In various embodiments, the synthetic absorbable polymer may
comprise a bioabsorbable, biocompatible elastomeric copolymer.
Suitable bioabsorbable, biocompatible elastomeric copolymers
include but are not limited to copolymers of epsilon-caprolactone
and glycolide (preferably having a mole ratio of
epsilon-caprolactone to glycolide of from about 30:70 to about
70:30, preferably 35:65 to about 65:35, and more preferably 45:55
to 35:65); elastomeric copolymers of epsilon-caprolactone and
lactide, including L-lactide, D-lactide blends thereof or lactic
acid copolymers (preferably having a mole ratio of
epsilon-caprolactone to lactide of from about 35:65 to about 65:35
and more preferably 45:55 to 30:70) elastomeric copolymers of
p-dioxanone (1,4-dioxan-2-one) and lactide including L-lactide,
D-lactide and lactic acid (preferably having a mole ratio of
p-dioxanone to lactide of from about 40:60 to about 60:40);
elastomeric copolymers of epsilon-caprolactone and p-dioxanone
(preferably having a mole ratio of epsilon-caprolactone to
p-dioxanone of from about 30:70 to about 70:30); elastomeric
copolymers of p-dioxanone and trimethylene carbonate (preferably
having a mole ratio of p-dioxanone to trimethylene carbonate of
from about 30:70 to about 70:30); elastomeric copolymers of
trimethylene carbonate and glycolide (preferably having a mole
ratio of trimethylene carbonate to glycolide of from about 30:70 to
about 70:30); elastomeric copolymer of trimethylene carbonate and
lactide including L-lactide, D-lactide, blends thereof or lactic
acid copolymers (preferably having a mole ratio of trimethylene
carbonate to lactide of from about 30:70 to about 70:30) and blends
thereof. In one embodiment, the elastomeric copolymer is a
copolymer of glycolide and epsilon-caprolactone. In another
embodiment, the elastomeric copolymer is a copolymer of lactide and
epsilon-caprolactone.
[0644] The disclosures of U.S. Pat. No. 5,468,253, entitled
ELASTOMERIC MEDICAL DEVICE, which issued on Nov. 21, 1995, and U.S.
Pat. No. 6,325,810, entitled FOAM BUTTRESS FOR STAPLING APPARATUS,
which issued on Dec. 4, 2001, are hereby incorporated by reference
in their respective entireties.
[0645] In various embodiments, the synthetic absorbable polymer may
comprise one or more of 90/10 poly(glycolide-L-lactide) copolymer,
commercially available from Ethicon, Inc. under the trade
designation VICRYL (polyglactic 910), polyglycolide, commercially
available from American Cyanamid Co. under the trade designation
DEXON, polydioxanone, commercially available from Ethicon, Inc.
under the trade designation PDS, poly(glycolide-trimethylene
carbonate) random block copolymer, commercially available from
American Cyanamid Co. under the trade designation MAXON, 75/25
poly(glycolide-E-caprolactone-poliglecaprolactone 25) copolymer,
commercially available from Ethicon under the trade designation
MONOCRYL, for example.
[0646] Examples of synthetic non-absorbable polymers include, but
are not limited to, foamed polyurethane, polypropylene (PP),
polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate, polyamides, such as nylon,
polyvinylchloride (PVC), polymethylmetacrylate (PMMA), polystyrene
(PS), polyester, polyetheretherketone (PEEK),
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polytrifluorochloroethylene
(PTFCE), polyvinylfluoride (PVF), fluorinated ethylene propylene
(FEP), polyacetal, polysulfone, and combinations thereof. The
synthetic non-absorbable polymers may include, but are not limited
to, foamed elastomers and porous elastomers, such as, for example,
silicone, polyisoprene, and rubber. In various embodiments, the
synthetic polymers may comprise expanded polytetrafluoroethylene
(ePTFE), commercially available from W. L. Gore & Associates,
Inc. under the trade designation GORE-TEX Soft Tissue Patch and
co-polyetherester urethane foam commercially available from
Polyganics under the trade designation NASOPORE.
[0647] The polymeric composition of a tissue thickness compensator
may be characterized by percent porosity, pore size, and/or
hardness, for example. In various embodiments, the polymeric
composition may have a percent porosity from approximately 30% by
volume to approximately 99% by volume, for example. In certain
embodiments, the polymeric composition may have a percent porosity
from approximately 60% by volume to approximately 98% by volume,
for example. In various embodiments, the polymeric composition may
have a percent porosity from approximately 85% by volume to
approximately 97% by volume, for example. In at least one
embodiment, the polymeric composition may comprise approximately
70% by weight of PLLA and approximately 30% by weight of PCL, for
example, and can comprise approximately 90% porosity by volume, for
example. In at least one such embodiment, as a result, the
polymeric composition would comprise approximately 10% copolymer by
volume. In at least one embodiment, the polymeric composition may
comprise approximately 65% by weight of PGA and approximately 35%
by weight of PCL, for example, and can have a percent porosity from
approximately 93% by volume to approximately 95% by volume, for
example. In various embodiments, the polymeric composition may
comprise a greater than 85% porosity by volume. The polymeric
composition may have a pore size from approximately 5 micrometers
to approximately 2000 micrometers, for example. In various
embodiments, the polymeric composition may have a pore size between
approximately 10 micrometers to approximately 100 micrometers, for
example. In at least one such embodiment, the polymeric composition
can comprise a copolymer of PGA and PCL, for example. In certain
embodiments, the polymeric composition may have a pore size between
approximately 100 micrometers to approximately 1000 micrometers,
for example. In at least one such embodiment, the polymeric
composition can comprise a copolymer of PLLA and PCL, for example.
According to certain aspects, the hardness of a polymeric
composition may be expressed in terms of the Shore Hardness, which
can defined as the resistance to permanent indentation of a
material as determined with a durometer, such as a Shore Durometer.
In order to assess the durometer value for a given material, a
pressure is applied to the material with a durometer indenter foot
in accordance with ASTM procedure D2240-00, entitled, "Standard
Test Method for Rubber Property-Durometer Hardness", the entirety
of which is incorporated herein by reference. The durometer
indenter foot may be applied to the material for a sufficient
period of time, such as 15 seconds, for example, wherein a reading
is then taken from the appropriate scale. Depending on the type of
scale being used, a reading of 0 can be obtained when the indenter
foot completely penetrates the material, and a reading of 100 can
be obtained when no penetration into the material occurs. This
reading is dimensionless. In various embodiments, the durometer may
be determined in accordance with any suitable scale, such as Type A
and/or Type OO scales, for example, in accordance with ASTM
D2240-00. In various embodiments, the polymeric composition of a
tissue thickness compensator may have a Shore A hardness value from
approximately 4 A to approximately 16 A, for example, which is
approximately 45 OO to approximately 65 OO on the Shore OO range.
In at least one such embodiment, the polymeric composition can
comprise a PLLA/PCL copolymer or a PGA/PCL copolymer, for example.
In various embodiments, the polymeric composition of a tissue
thickness compensator may have a Shore A Hardness value of less
than 15 A. In various embodiments, the polymeric composition of a
tissue thickness compensator may have a Shore A Hardness value of
less than 10 A. In various embodiments, the polymeric composition
of a tissue thickness compensator may have a Shore A Hardness value
of less than 5 A. In certain embodiments, the polymeric material
may have a Shore OO composition value from approximately 35 OO to
approximately 75 OO, for example.
[0648] In various embodiments, the polymeric composition may have
at least two of the above-identified properties. In various
embodiments, the polymeric composition may have at least three of
the above-identified properties. The polymeric composition may have
a porosity from 85% to 97% by volume, a pore size from 5
micrometers to 2000 micrometers, and a Shore A hardness value from
4 A to 16 A and Shore OO hardness value from 45 OO to 65 OO, for
example. In at least one embodiment, the polymeric composition may
comprise 70% by weight of the polymeric composition of PLLA and 30%
by weight of the polymeric composition of PCL having a porosity of
90% by volume, a pore size from 100 micrometers to 1000
micrometers, and a Shore A hardness value from 4 A to 16 A and
Shore OO hardness value from 45 OO to 65 OO, for example. In at
least one embodiment, the polymeric composition may comprise 65% by
weight of the polymeric composition of PGA and 35% by weight of the
polymeric composition of PCL having a porosity from 93% to 95% by
volume, a pore size from 10 micrometers to 100 micrometers, and a
Shore A hardness value from 4 A to 16 A and Shore OO hardness value
from 45 OO to 65 OO, for example.
[0649] In various embodiments, the polymeric composition may
comprise a pharmaceutically active agent. The polymeric composition
may release a therapeutically effective amount of the
pharmaceutically active agent. In various embodiments, the
pharmaceutically active agent may be released as the polymeric
composition is desorbed/absorbed. In various embodiments, the
pharmaceutically active agent may be released into fluid, such as,
for example, blood, passing over or through the polymeric
composition. Examples of pharmaceutically active agents may
include, but are not limited to, hemostatic agents and drugs, such
as, for example, fibrin, thrombin, and oxidized regenerated
cellulose (ORC); anti-inflammatory drugs, such as, for example,
diclofenac, aspirin, naproxen, sulindac, and hydrocortisone;
antibiotic and antimicrobial drug or agents, such as, for example,
triclosan, ionic silver, ampicillin, gentamicin, polymyxin B,
chloramphenicol; and anticancer agents, such as, for example,
cisplatin, mitomycin, adriamycin.
[0650] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 216, a staple
cartridge, such as staple cartridge 10000, for example, can
comprise a support portion 10010 and a compressible tissue
thickness compensator 10020. Referring now to FIGS. 218-220, the
support portion 10010 can comprise a deck surface 10011 and a
plurality of staple cavities 10012 defined within the support
portion 10010. Each staple cavity 10012 can be sized and configured
to removably store a staple, such as a staple 10030, for example,
therein. The staple cartridge 10000 can further comprise a
plurality of staple drivers 10040 which can each be configured to
support one or more staples 10030 within the staple cavities 10012
when the staples 10030 and the staple drivers 10040 are in their
unfired positions. In at least one such embodiment, referring
primarily to FIGS. 224 and 225, each staple driver 10040 can
comprise one or more cradles, or troughs, 10041, for example, which
can be configured to support the staples and limit relative
movement between the staples 10030 and the staple drivers 10040. In
various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 218, the staple
cartridge 10000 can further comprise a staple-firing sled 10050
which can be moved from a proximal end 10001 to a distal end 10002
of the staple cartridge in order to sequentially lift the staple
drivers 10040 and the staples 10030 from their unfired positions
toward an anvil positioned opposite the staple cartridge 10000. In
certain embodiments, referring primarily to FIGS. 218 and 220, each
staple 10030 can comprise a base 10031 and one or more legs 10032
extending from the base 10031 wherein each staple can be at least
one of substantially U-shaped and substantially V-shaped, for
example. In at least one embodiment, the staples 10030 can be
configured such that the tips of the staple legs 10032 are recessed
with respect to the deck surface 10011 of the support portion 10010
when the staples 10030 are in their unfired positions. In at least
one embodiment, the staples 10030 can be configured such that the
tips of the staple legs 10032 are flush with respect to the deck
surface 10011 of the support portion 10010 when the staples 10030
are in their unfired positions. In at least one embodiment, the
staples 10030 can be configured such that the tips of the staple
legs 10032, or at least some portion of the staple legs 10032,
extend above the deck surface 10011 of the support portion 10010
when the staples 10030 are in their unfired positions. In such
embodiments, the staple legs 10032 can extend into and can be
embedded within the tissue thickness compensator 10020 when the
staples 10030 are in their unfired positions. In at least one such
embodiment, the staple legs 10032 can extend above the deck surface
10011 by approximately 0.075'', for example. In various
embodiments, the staple legs 10032 can extend above the deck
surface 10011 by a distance between approximately 0.025'' and
approximately 0.125'', for example. In certain embodiments, further
to the above, the tissue thickness compensator 10020 can comprise
an uncompressed thickness between approximately 0.08'' and
approximately 0.125'', for example.
[0651] In use, further to the above and referring primarily to FIG.
233, an anvil, such as anvil, 10060, for example, can be moved into
a closed position opposite the staple cartridge 10000. As described
in greater detail below, the anvil 10060 can position tissue
against the tissue thickness compensator 10020 and, in various
embodiments, compress the tissue thickness compensator 10020
against the deck surface 10011 of the support portion 10010, for
example. Once the anvil 10060 has been suitably positioned, the
staples 10030 can be deployed, as also illustrated in FIG. 233. In
various embodiments, as mentioned above, the staple-firing sled
10050 can be moved from the proximal end 10001 of the staple
cartridge 10000 toward the distal end 10002, as illustrated in FIG.
234. As the sled 10050 is advanced, the sled 10050 can contact the
staple drivers 10040 and lift the staple drivers 10040 upwardly
within the staple cavities 10012. In at least one embodiment, the
sled 10050 and the staple drivers 10040 can each comprise one or
more ramps, or inclined surfaces, which can co-operate to move the
staple drivers 10040 upwardly from their unfired positions. In at
least one such embodiment, referring to FIGS. 221-225, each staple
driver 10040 can comprise at least one inclined surface 10042 and
the sled 10050 can comprise one or more inclined surfaces 10052
which can be configured such that the inclined surfaces 10052 can
slide under the inclined surface 10042 as the sled 10050 is
advanced distally within the staple cartridge. As the staple
drivers 10040 are lifted upwardly within their respective staple
cavities 10012, the staple drivers 10040 can lift the staples 10030
upwardly such that the staples 10030 can emerge from their staple
cavities 10012 through openings in the staple deck 10011. During an
exemplary firing sequence, referring primarily to FIGS. 227-229,
the sled 10050 can first contact staple 10030a and begin to lift
the staple 10030a upwardly. As the sled 10050 is advanced further
distally, the sled 10050 can begin to lift staples 10030b, 10030c,
10030d, 10030e, and 10030f, and any other subsequent staples, in a
sequential order. As illustrated in FIG. 229, the sled 10050 can
drive the staples 10030 upwardly such that the legs 10032 of the
staples contact the opposing anvil, are deformed to a desired
shape, and ejected therefrom the support portion 10010. In various
circumstances, the sled 10030 can move several staples upwardly at
the same time as part of a firing sequence. With regard to the
firing sequence illustrated in FIG. 229, the staples 10030a and
10030b have been moved into their fully fired positions and ejected
from the support portion 10010, the staples 10030c and 10030d are
in the process of being fired and are at least partially contained
within the support portion 10010, and the staples 10030e and 10030f
are still in their unfired positions.
[0652] As discussed above, and referring to FIG. 235, the staple
legs 10032 of the staples 10030 can extend above the deck surface
10011 of the support portion 10010 when the staples 10030 are in
their unfired positions. With further regard to this firing
sequence illustrated in FIG. 229, the staples 10030e and 10030f are
illustrated in their unfired position and their staple legs 10032
extend above the deck surface 10011 and into the tissue thickness
compensator 10020. In various embodiments, the tips of the staple
legs 10032, or any other portion of the staple legs 10032, may not
protrude through a top tissue-contacting surface 10021 of the
tissue thickness compensator 10020 when the staples 10030 are in
their unfired positions. As the staples 10030 are moved from their
unfired positions to their fired positions, as illustrated in FIG.
229, the tips of the staple legs can protrude through the
tissue-contacting surface 10032. In various embodiments, the tips
of the staple legs 10032 can comprise sharp tips which can incise
and penetrate the tissue thickness compensator 10020. In certain
embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator 10020 can comprise a
plurality of apertures which can be configured to receive the
staple legs 10032 and allow the staple legs 10032 to slide relative
to the tissue thickness compensator 10020. In certain embodiments,
the support portion 10010 can further comprise a plurality of
guides 10013 extending from the deck surface 10011. The guides
10013 can be positioned adjacent to the staple cavity openings in
the deck surface 10011 such that the staple legs 10032 can be at
least partially supported by the guides 10013. In certain
embodiments, a guide 10013 can be positioned at a proximal end
and/or a distal end of a staple cavity opening. In various
embodiments, a first guide 10013 can be positioned at a first end
of each staple cavity opening and a second guide 10013 can be
positioned at a second end of each staple cavity opening such that
each first guide 10013 can support a first staple leg 10032 of a
staple 10030 and each second guide 10013 can support a second
staple leg 10032 of the staple. In at least one embodiment,
referring to FIG. 235, each guide 10013 can comprise a groove or
slot, such as groove 10016, for example, within which a staple leg
10032 can be slidably received. In various embodiments, each guide
10013 can comprise a cleat, protrusion, and/or spike that can
extend from the deck surface 10011 and can extend into the tissue
thickness compensator 10020. In at least one embodiment, as
discussed in greater detail below, the cleats, protrusions, and/or
spikes can reduce relative movement between the tissue thickness
compensator 10020 and the support portion 10010. In certain
embodiments, the tips of the staple legs 10032 may be positioned
within the guides 10013 and may not extend above the top surfaces
of the guides 10013 when the staples 10030 are in their unfired
position. In at least such embodiment, the guides 10013 can define
a guide height and the staples 10030 may not extend above this
guide height when they are in their unfired position.
[0653] In various embodiments, a tissue thickness compensator, such
as tissue thickness compensator 10020, for example, can be
comprised of a single sheet of material. In at least one
embodiment, a tissue thickness compensator can comprise a
continuous sheet of material which can cover the entire top deck
surface 10011 of the support portion 10010 or, alternatively, cover
less than the entire deck surface 10011. In certain embodiments,
the sheet of material can cover the staple cavity openings in the
support portion 10010 while, in other embodiments, the sheet of
material can comprise openings which can be aligned, or at least
partially aligned, with the staple cavity openings. In various
embodiments, a tissue thickness compensator can be comprised of
multiple layers of material. In some embodiments, referring now to
FIG. 217, a tissue thickness compensator can comprise a
compressible core and a wrap surrounding the compressible core. In
certain embodiments, a wrap 10022 can be configured to releasably
hold the compressible core to the support portion 10010. In at
least one such embodiment, the support portion 10010 can comprise
one or more projections, such as projections 10014 (FIG. 220), for
example, extending therefrom which can be received within one or
more apertures and/or slots, such as apertures 10024, for example,
defined in the wrap 10022. The projections 10014 and the apertures
10024 can be configured such that the projections 10014 can retain
the wrap 10022 to the support portion 10010. In at least one
embodiment, the ends of the projections 10014 can be deformed, such
as by a heat-stake process, for example, in order to enlarge the
ends of the projections 10014 and, as a result, limit the relative
movement between the wrap 10022 and the support portion 10010. In
at least one embodiment, the wrap 10022 can comprise one or more
perforations 10025 which can facilitate the release of the wrap
10022 from the support portion 10010, as illustrated in FIG. 217.
Referring now to FIG. 226, a tissue thickness compensator can
comprise a wrap 10222 including a plurality of apertures 10223,
wherein the apertures 10223 can be aligned, or at least partially
aligned, with the staple cavity openings in the support portion
10010. In certain embodiments, the core of the tissue thickness
compensator can also comprise apertures which are aligned, or at
least partially aligned, with the apertures 10223 in the wrap
10222. In other embodiments, the core of the tissue thickness
compensator can comprise a continuous body and can extend
underneath the apertures 10223 such that the continuous body covers
the staple cavity openings in the deck surface 10011.
[0654] In various embodiments, as described above, a tissue
thickness compensator can comprise a wrap for releasably holding a
compressible core to the support portion 10010. In at least one
such embodiment, referring to FIG. 218, a staple cartridge can
further comprise retainer clips 10026 which can be configured to
inhibit the wrap, and the compressible core, from prematurely
detaching from the support portion 10010. In various embodiments,
each retainer clip 10026 can comprise apertures 10028 which can be
configured to receive the projections 10014 extending from the
support portion 10010 such that the retainer clips 10026 can be
retained to the support portion 10010. In certain embodiments, the
retainer clips 10026 can each comprise at least one pan portion
10027 which can extend underneath the support portion 10010 and can
support and retain the staple drivers 10040 within the support
portion 10010. In certain embodiments, as described above, a tissue
thickness compensator can be removably attached to the support
portion 10010 by the staples 10030. More particularly, as also
described above, the legs of the staples 10030 can extend into the
tissue thickness compensator 10020 when the staples 10030 are in
their unfired position and, as a result, releasably hold the tissue
thickness compensator 10020 to the support portion 10010. In at
least one embodiment, the legs of the staples 10030 can be in
contact with the sidewalls of their respective staple cavities
10012 wherein, owing to friction between the staple legs 10032 and
the sidewalls, the staples 10030 and the tissue thickness
compensator 10020 can be retained in position until the staples
10030 are deployed from the staple cartridge 10000. When the
staples 10030 are deployed, the tissue thickness compensator 10020
can be captured within the staples 10030 and held against the
stapled tissue T. When the anvil is thereafter moved into an open
position to release the tissue T, the support portion 10010 can be
moved away from the tissue thickness compensator 10020 which has
been fastened to the tissue. In certain embodiments, an adhesive
can be utilized to removably hold the tissue thickness compensator
10020 to the support portion 10010. In at least one embodiment, a
two-part adhesive can be utilized wherein, in at least one
embodiment, a first part of the adhesive can be placed on the deck
surface 10011 and a second part of the adhesive can be placed on
the tissue thickness compensator 10020 such that, when the tissue
thickness compensator 10020 is placed against the deck surface
10011, the first part can contact the second part to active the
adhesive and detachably bond the tissue thickness compensator 10020
to the support portion 10010. In various embodiments, any other
suitable means could be used to detachably retain the tissue
thickness compensator to the support portion of a staple
cartridge.
[0655] In various embodiments, further to the above, the sled 10050
can be advanced from the proximal end 10001 to the distal end 10002
to fully deploy all of the staples 10030 contained within the
staple cartridge 10000. In at least one embodiment, referring now
to FIGS. 258-262, the sled 10050 can be advanced distally within a
longitudinal cavity 10016 within the support portion 10010 by a
firing member, or knife bar, 10052 of a surgical stapler. In use,
the staple cartridge 10000 can be inserted into a staple cartridge
channel in a jaw of the surgical stapler, such as staple cartridge
channel 10070, for example, and the firing member 10052 can be
advanced into contact with the sled 10050, as illustrated in FIG.
258. As the sled 10050 is advanced distally by the firing member
10052, the sled 10050 can contact the proximal-most staple driver,
or drivers, 10040 and fire, or eject, the staples 10030 from the
cartridge body 10010, as described above. As illustrated in FIG.
258, the firing member 10052 can further comprise a cutting edge
10053 which can be advanced distally through a knife slot in the
support portion 10010 as the staples 10030 are being fired. In
various embodiments, a corresponding knife slot can extend through
the anvil positioned opposite the staple cartridge 10000 such that,
in at least one embodiment, the cutting edge 10053 can extend
between the anvil and the support portion 10010 and incise the
tissue and the tissue thickness compensator positioned
therebetween. In various circumstances, the sled 10050 can be
advanced distally by the firing member 10052 until the sled 10050
reaches the distal end 10002 of the staple cartridge 10000, as
illustrated in FIG. 260. At such point, the firing member 10052 can
be retracted proximally. In some embodiments, the sled 10050 can be
retracted proximally with the firing member 10052 but, in various
embodiments, referring now to FIG. 261, the sled 10050 can be left
behind in the distal end 10002 of the staple cartridge 10000 when
the firing member 10052 is retracted. Once the firing member 10052
has been sufficiently retracted, the anvil can be re-opened, the
tissue thickness compensator 10020 can be detached from the support
portion 10010, and the remaining non-implanted portion of the
expended staple cartridge 10000, including the support portion
10010, can be removed from the staple cartridge channel 10070.
[0656] After the expended staple cartridge 10000 has been removed
from the staple cartridge channel, further to the above, a new
staple cartridge 10000, or any other suitable staple cartridge, can
be inserted into the staple cartridge channel 10070. In various
embodiments, further to the above, the staple cartridge channel
10070, the firing member 10052, and/or the staple cartridge 10000
can comprise co-operating features which can prevent the firing
member 10052 from being advanced distally a second, or subsequent,
time without a new, or unfired, staple cartridge 10000 positioned
in the staple cartridge channel 10070. More particularly, referring
again to FIG. 258, as the firing member 10052 is advanced into
contact with the sled 10050 and, when the sled 10050 is in its
proximal unfired position, a support nose 10055 of the firing
member 10052 can be positioned on and/or over a support ledge 10056
on the sled 10050 such that the firing member 10052 is held in a
sufficient upward position to prevent a lock, or beam, 10054
extending from the firing member 10052 from dropping into a lock
recess defined within the staple cartridge channel. As the lock
10054 will not drop into the lock recess, in such circumstances,
the lock 10054 may not abut a distal sidewall 10057 of the lock
recess as the firing member 10052 is advanced. As the firing member
10052 pushes the sled 10050 distally, the firing member 10052 can
be supported in its upward firing position owing to the support
nose 10055 resting on the support ledge 10056. When the firing
member 10052 is retracted relative to the sled 10050, as discussed
above and illustrated in FIG. 261, the firing member 10052 can drop
downwardly from its upward position as the support nose 10055 is no
longer resting on the support ledge 10056 of the sled 10050. In at
least one such embodiment, the surgical staple can comprise a
spring 10058, and/or any other suitable biasing element, which can
be configured to bias the firing member 10052 into its downward
position. Once the firing member 10052 has been completely
retracted, as illustrated in FIG. 262, the firing member 10052
cannot be advanced distally through the spent staple cartridge
10000 once again. More particularly, the firing member 10052 can't
be held in its upper position by the sled 10050 as the sled 10050,
at this point in the operating sequence, has been left behind at
the distal end 10002 of the staple cartridge 10000. Thus, as
mentioned above, in the event that the firing member 10052 is
advanced once again without replacing the staple cartridge, the
lock beam 10054 will contact the sidewall 10057 of the lock recess
which will prevent the firing member 10052 from being advanced
distally into the staple cartridge 10000 once again. Stated another
way, once the spent staple cartridge 10000 has been replaced with a
new staple cartridge, the new staple cartridge will have a
proximally-positioned sled 10050 which can hold the firing member
10052 in its upper position and allow the firing member 10052 to be
advanced distally once again.
[0657] As described above, the sled 10050 can be configured to move
the staple drivers 10040 between a first, unfired position and a
second, fired position in order to eject staples 10030 from the
support portion 10010. In various embodiments, the staple drivers
10040 can be contained within the staple cavities 10012 after the
staples 10030 have been ejected from the support portion 10010. In
certain embodiments, the support portion 10010 can comprise one or
more retention features which can be configured to block the staple
drivers 10040 from being ejected from, or falling out of, the
staple cavities 10012. In various other embodiments, the sled 10050
can be configured to eject the staple drivers 10040 from the
support portion 10010 with the staples 10030. In at least one such
embodiment, the staple drivers 10040 can be comprised of a
bioabsorbable and/or biocompatible material, such as Ultem, for
example. In certain embodiments, the staple drivers can be attached
to the staples 10030. In at least one such embodiment, a staple
driver can be molded over and/or around the base of each staple
10030 such that the driver is integrally formed with the staple.
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/541,123, entitled SURGICAL
STAPLES HAVING COMPRESSIBLE OR CRUSHABLE MEMBERS FOR SECURING
TISSUE THEREIN AND STAPLING INSTRUMENTS FOR DEPLOYING THE SAME,
filed on Sep. 29, 2006, is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
[0658] In various circumstances, further to the above, a
compressible tissue thickness compensator can move, twist, and/or
deflect relative to the underlying rigid support portion of a
staple cartridge. In various embodiments, the support portion,
and/or any other suitable portion of the staple cartridge, can
comprise one or more features configured to limit relative movement
between the tissue thickness compensator and the support portion.
As described above, at least a portion of the staples 10030 can
extend above the deck surface 10011 of the support portion 10010
wherein, in certain circumstances, referring now to FIGS. 263 and
264, lateral forces applied to a tissue thickness compensator
10120, for example, can be resisted by the staples 10030 and/or the
cleats 10013 extending from the support portion 10010, for example.
In various circumstances, the staples 10030 may tilt and/or bend
within the staple cavities 10012 while resisting the lateral
movement of the tissue thickness compensator 10120 wherein, in
various embodiments, the staple cavities 10012 and the staples
10030 can be sized and configured to maintain the relative
alignment between the legs 10032 of the staples 10030 and the
forming pockets 10062 in the opposing anvil 10060 such that the
staples 10000 are properly formed during the staple forming
process. In various embodiments, the staples 10030 and/or the
cleats 10013 can be configured to prevent or at least limit lateral
distortion within the tissue thickness compensator 10020, as
illustrated in FIG. 264. In at least one such embodiment, the
staples 10030 and/or cleats 10013, for example, can be configured
to stiffen, or limit the lateral and/or longitudinal movement of, a
first, or tissue-contacting, surface 10021 of the tissue thickness
compensator relative to a second, or bottom, surface 10029. In
various embodiments, a staple cartridge, and/or a staple cartridge
channel in which the staple cartridge is positioned, can comprise
at least one distortion minimizing member which can extend upwardly
to limit the lateral and/or longitudinal movement, or distortion,
of a tissue thickness compensator. A wrap at least partially
surrounding a tissue thickness compensator, as discussed above, may
also prevent, or at least limit, the lateral and/or longitudinal
movement, or distortion, of the tissue thickness compensator.
[0659] In various embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 263 and
264, a tissue thickness compensator, such as tissue thickness
compensator 10120, for example, can comprise a core 10128 and a
skin 10122. The skin 10122 and the compressible core 10128 can be
comprised of different materials or, alternatively, of the same
material. In either event, the skin 10122 can have a higher density
than the core 10128. In circumstances where the skin 10122
comprises the top of the tissue thickness compensator 10120, the
tips of the staple legs 10032 can be embedded in the skin 10122. In
embodiments wherein a skin comprises the bottom of the tissue
thickness compensator 10120, the staple legs 10032 can extend
through the skin and into the core. In either event, the skin of
the tissue thickness compensator can assist in holding the staple
legs 10032 in alignment with the forming pockets 10062 of the anvil
10060. In various embodiments, the skin 10122 can comprise a
density which is approximately 10% greater than the density of the
core 10128, approximately 20% greater than the density of the core
10128, approximately 30% greater than the density of the core
10128, approximately 40% greater than the density of the core
10128, approximately 50% greater than the density of the core
10128, approximately 60% greater than the density of the core
10128, approximately 70% greater than the density of the core
10128, approximately 80% greater than the density of the core
10128, approximately 90% greater than the density of the core
10128, and/or approximately 100% greater than the density of the
core 10128, for example. In various embodiments, the skin 10122 can
comprise a density which is more than the density of the core 10128
and less than twice the density of the core 10128, for example. In
various embodiments, the skin 10122 can comprise a density which is
over twice the density of the core 10128, for example. In various
embodiments, further to the above, the skin 10122 and the core
10128 can be formed, or manufactured, simultaneously. In at least
one such embodiment, a fluid comprising any suitable material
disclosed herein can be poured into a dish or mold and, while the
fluid solidifies, the fluid can form a skin, or layer, which has a
higher density than the remainder of the material. In various
embodiments, multiple layers within a material can be formed by
utilizing a process in which one or more subsequent layers of
material are poured onto a previously cured layer. In certain
embodiments, two or more layers can be bonded to each other with an
adhesive, for example. In some embodiments, two or more layers can
be attached to each other by one or more fasteners and/or one or
more mechanical interlocking features, for example. In at least one
such embodiment, adjacent layers can be connected together by one
or more dovetail joints, for example. In certain embodiments, the
skin can comprise a sealed surface which can prevent, or at least
limit, the flow of fluid therethrough. In certain other
embodiments, the skin can comprise an open cell porous structure,
for example.
[0660] In various embodiments, further to the above, the skin can
be cut off of the tissue thickness compensator. In at least one
embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator can be cut from a
larger block of material such that the tissue thickness compensator
does not comprise a skin. In at least one such embodiment, the
tissue thickness compensator can be comprised of a homogenous, or
at least substantially homogeneous, material, comprising large
pores, for example.
[0661] In various embodiments, a staple cartridge can comprise a
plurality of staple cavities each containing a staple positioned
therein wherein the staple cavities can be arranged in a plurality
of rows, and wherein an anvil positioned opposite the staple
cartridge can comprise a plurality of forming pockets which
correspond to the staple cavities in the staple cartridge. Stated
another way, the anvil can comprise a plurality of forming pocket
rows wherein each forming pocket can be positioned opposite a
staple cavity in the staple cartridge. In various embodiments, each
forming pocket can comprise two forming cups configured to receive
the staple legs 10032 of a staple 10030 wherein each forming cup is
configured to receive a staple leg 10032 and form or curl the
staple leg 10032 toward the other staple leg 10032, for example. In
various circumstances, the legs 10032 may miss or not properly
enter into the forming cups and, as a result, the staple legs 10032
may become malformed during the firing sequence. In various
embodiments described herein, an anvil can comprise an array, or
grid, of forming pockets which are each configured to receive and
form a staple leg. In at least one such embodiment, the array of
forming pockets can comprise a quantity of forming pockets that
exceeds the quantity of staples contained within the staple
cartridge. In at least one embodiment, a staple cartridge can
comprise six longitudinal rows of staple cavities, for example,
wherein the anvil can comprise six rows of forming pockets aligned
with the six rows of staple cavities and, in addition, forming
pockets positioned intermediate the rows of forming pockets. For
example, on one side of the anvil, the anvil can comprise a first
row of forming pockets which can be positioned over a first row of
staple cavities, a second row of forming pockets which can be
positioned over a second row of staple cavities that is adjacent to
the first row of staple cavities, and, in addition, a row of
forming pockets positioned intermediate the first row of forming
pockets and the second row of forming pockets. In various
embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 276-279, an anvil 10260 can
comprise six rows of forming pockets 10261 which can be configured
to be placed over six corresponding rows of staple cavities in the
staple cartridge 10200. In at least one such embodiment, rows of
intermediate forming pockets 10262 can be positioned intermediate
and/or adjacent to the rows of forming pockets 10261. In certain
embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 277, 278, and 280, each forming
pocket 10261 and 10262 can comprise two forming cups, wherein each
forming cup can comprise a distal portion 10263 which can be
configured to form or curl a staple leg 10032 proximally and a
proximal portion 10264 which can be configured to form or curl a
staple leg 10032 distally. In various other circumstances, the
staples 10030 can be formed in a variety of other ways. For
example, a staple 10030 can be formed such that one leg 10032 is
formed outwardly and the other leg 10032 is formed inwardly (FIG.
281), or such that both legs 10032 are formed outwardly (FIG. 282)
depending on, one, which forming cups that the staple legs 10032
enter into and/or, two, whether the legs 10032 enter into the
proximal portion 10263 or the distal portion 10064 of each forming
cup, for example.
[0662] In various embodiments, further to the above, each forming
pocket 10261 and/or forming pocket 10262 can comprise a triangular
or diamond-like shape, for example. In at least one embodiment,
each distal portion 10263 and/or each proximal portion 10264 of the
forming pockets can comprise a triangular shape wherein, in at
least one such embodiment, the triangular shapes of the distal
portions 10263 and the proximal portions 10264 can be arranged such
that they have vertices pointing in opposite directions. In certain
embodiments, an anvil can comprise an array of substantially square
forming pockets, for example. In at least one such embodiment, the
forming surface of each square forming pocket can comprise an
arcuate surface that extends between the sides of the square. In
some embodiments, an anvil can comprise an array of circular or
spherical dimples, for example. In various embodiments, further to
the above, the forming pockets 10261 can be positioned along one or
more lines and, similarly, the forming pockets 10262 can also be
positioned along one or more lines. In various other embodiments,
the forming pockets 10261 and/or the forming pockets 10262 can be
arranged in one or more circular rows. In at least one such
embodiment, the forming pockets 10261 can be arranged along a
primary circumference and the forming pockets 10262 can be arranged
along a different circumference. In various embodiments, the
primary circumference and the different circumference can be
concentric, or at least substantially concentric. In certain
embodiments, the forming pockets 10262 can be arranged along an
inner circumference positioned radially inwardly with respect to
the primary circumference and/or an outer circumference positioned
radially outwardly with respect to the primary circumference, for
example. In various embodiments, the primary circumference can be
defined by a primary diameter, the inner circumference can be
defined by an inner diameter, and the outer circumference can be
defined by an outer diameter. In at least one such embodiment, the
inner diameter can be shorter than the primary diameter and the
outer diameter can be longer than the primary diameter.
[0663] In various embodiments, as described above, an anvil can be
moved from an open position to a closed position in order to
compress tissue against the tissue thickness compensator of a
staple cartridge, such as tissue thickness compensator 10020, for
example. In various circumstances, the tissue thickness compensator
can be positioned adjacent to the support portion of the staple
cartridge prior to the tissue thickness compensator being
positioned relative to the tissue. In certain embodiments, the
tissue thickness compensator 10020 can be in a position in which it
abuts the support portion 10018 prior to the anvil being moved into
its closed position. In certain other embodiments, the tissue
thickness compensator 10020 can be in a position in which a gap is
present between the tissue thickness compensator 10020 and the
support portion 10018. In at least one such embodiment, the anvil
can displace the tissue and the tissue thickness compensator 10020
downwardly until the tissue thickness compensator 10020 abuts the
support portion 10018 wherein, at such point, the anvil can be
moved into is closed position and generate compression within the
tissue. In the event that a surgeon is not satisfied with the
positioning of the tissue between the anvil and the staple
cartridge, the surgeon can open the anvil, adjust the position of
the anvil and the staple cartridge, and close the anvil once again.
Owing to such positioning and re-positioning of the staple
cartridge relative to the tissue, in various circumstances, the
distal end of the tissue thickness compensator 10020 may become
dislodged from the support portion 10010, for example. In some such
circumstances, the distal end of the tissue thickness compensator
10020 can contact the tissue and peel away from, or roll relative
to, the support portion 10010. In various embodiments, as described
in greater detail below, a staple cartridge can comprise one or
more features configured to releasably retain a tissue thickness
compensator to an underlying support portion of the staple
cartridge
[0664] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 265, a staple
cartridge 10300 can comprise a support portion 10310, a tissue
thickness compensator 10320 supported by the support portion 10310,
and a distal end 10302 which includes a nose 10303 configured to
releasably hold a distal end 10325 of the tissue thickness
compensator 10320 in position. In at least one embodiment, the nose
10303 can comprise a slot 10305 configured to receive the distal
end 10325 of the tissue thickness compensator 10320. In various
embodiments, the distal end 10325 can be compressed, or wedged,
within the slot 10305 such that the distal end 10325 can be held in
place as the staple cartridge 10300 is positioned relative to the
tissue. In at least one such embodiment, the slot 10305 can be
oriented in a direction which is parallel, or at least
substantially parallel, to the deck surface 10311 of the support
portion 10310. In various embodiments, the slot 10305 can be
horizontal with respect to the deck surface 10311. In various other
embodiments, referring now to FIG. 266, a staple cartridge 10400
can comprise a support portion, a tissue thickness compensator
10420 supported by support portion, and a distal end 10402 which
includes a nose 10403 configured to releasably hold the distal end
10425 of the tissue thickness compensator 10420 in position. In at
least one embodiment, the distal end 10425 can comprise a
projection extending therefrom and the nose 10403 can comprise a
vertical slot 10405 configured to receive the projection of the
distal end 10425. In various embodiments, the distal end 10425,
and/or the projection extending therefrom, can be compressed, or
wedged, within the slot 10405 such that the distal end 10425 can be
held in place as the staple cartridge 10400 is positioned relative
to the tissue. In certain embodiments, the tissue thickness
compensator 10420 can comprise a slot, such as slot 10429, for
example, which can be configured to receive at least a portion of
the nose 10403 therein. In at least one embodiment, the slot 10405
can be oriented in a direction which is perpendicular, or at least
substantially perpendicular, to the deck surface 10411 of the
support portion. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 267,
a staple cartridge 10500 can comprise a support portion, a tissue
thickness compensator 10520 supported by the support portion, and a
distal end 10502 which includes a nose configured to releasably
hold the distal end 10525 of the tissue thickness compensator 10520
in position. In at least one embodiment, the nose can comprise a
vertical slot 10505 configured to receive the distal end 10525 of
the tissue thickness compensator 10520. In various embodiments, the
distal end 10525 can be compressed, or wedged, within the slot
10505 such that the distal end 10525 can be held in place as the
staple cartridge 10500 is positioned relative to the tissue.
[0665] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 265, the
tissue thickness compensator 10320 can comprise a top surface 10324
which can be positioned above the top surface 10304 of the nose
10303. Another exemplary embodiment in which the top surface of a
tissue thickness compensator is positioned above the nose of the
staple cartridge is illustrated in FIG. 238, wherein the top
surface 10721 of the tissue thickness compensator 10720 is
positioned above the top surface 10004 of the nose 10003, for
example. In use, referring once again to FIG. 265, tissue can slide
over the top surface 10304 of the nose 10303 and, in some
circumstance, the tissue can contact the distal end 10325 of the
tissue thickness compensator 10320 and can apply a force to the
tissue thickness compensator 10320 tending to peel the tissue
thickness compensator 10320 away from the support portion 10310. In
the embodiments described herein, this peel force can be resisted
by the portion of the distal end 10325 wedged within the nose
10303. In any event, once the tissue has been suitably positioned
relative to the staple cartridge 13000, an anvil can be rotated
into a closed position to compress the tissue and the tissue
thickness compensator 10320 against the support portion 10310. In
at least one such embodiment, the anvil can be rotated into a
position in which the anvil contacts the top surface 10304 of the
nose 10303 and, as a result, the anvil can be prevented from
rotating further. In various circumstances, owing to the top
surface 10324 of the tissue thickness compensator 10320 being
positioned above the top surface 10304 of the nose 10303, the top
surface 10324 can be pushed downwardly toward the support portion
10310 as the anvil is being closed and, in some circumstances, the
top surface 10324 can be pushed below the top surface 10304 of the
nose 10303, for example. After the staples contained within the
staple cartridge 10300 have been deployed and the tissue thickness
compensator 10320 has been incised, as described herein, the
support portion 10310 and the nose 10303 can be moved away from the
tissue thickness compensator 10320 such that the distal end 10325
of the tissue thickness compensator 10320 can slide out of the slot
10305.
[0666] As described above, an anvil, such as anvil 10060, for
example, can be rotated into a closed position in which the anvil
10060 contacts the top nose surface 10004 of a staple cartridge,
such as staple cartridge 10000, for example. Once the anvil has
reached its closed position, the amount in which a tissue thickness
compensator, such as tissue thickness compensator 10020, for
example, is compressed will depend on, among other things, the
uncompressed thickness, or height, of the tissue thickness
compensator and the thickness of the tissue. Referring now to FIGS.
236 and 237, a tissue thickness compensator 10920 can comprise a
top surface which is flush, or at least substantially flush, with
the top surface 10004 of the nose 10003. In such embodiments, the
top surface of the tissue thickness compensator 10920 can be pushed
below the top surface 10004 of the nose 10003. Referring now to
FIGS. 241 and 242, a tissue thickness compensator, such as tissue
thickness compensator 10820, for example, can comprise a top
surface 10821 which is positioned below the top nose surface 10004
prior to the tissue thickness compensator 10820 being compressed by
the tissue T and anvil 10060. In the circumstances where the tissue
T is relatively thin, as illustrated in FIGS. 239 and 240, the
tissue thickness compensator 10920 may undergo relatively little
compression. Referring now to FIGS. 241 and 242, the tissue
thickness compensator 10820 may undergo a larger compression when
the tissue T is relatively thicker. In the circumstances where the
tissue T has both thin sections and thicker sections, as
illustrated in FIGS. 243 and 244, the tissue thickness compensator
10820 may be compressed a larger amount when it is positioned under
the thicker tissue T and a lesser amount when it is positioned
under the thinner tissue T, for example. In this way, as described
above, the tissue thickness compensator can compensate for
different tissue thicknesses.
[0667] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 268-270, a
surgical stapling instrument can comprise, one, a cartridge channel
16670 configured to receive a staple cartridge 16600 and, two, an
anvil 16660 pivotably coupled to the cartridge channel 16670. The
staple cartridge 16600 can comprise a support portion 16610 and a
tissue thickness compensator 16620 wherein a distal end 16625 of
the tissue thickness compensator 16620 can be releasably held to
the support portion 16610 by a nose 16603 at the distal end 16602
of the staple cartridge 16600. In at least one embodiment, the nose
16603 can comprise a slot 16605 and can be comprised of a flexible
material. In use, referring primarily to FIG. 269, the nose 16603
can be flexed downwardly in order to expand the opening of slot
16605. In certain embodiments, the nose 16603 can comprise notches
or cut-outs 16606 which can be configured to permit the nose 16603
to flex downwardly. In any event, in various circumstances, the
expanded opening of the slot 16605 can facilitate the insertion of
the distal end 16625 of the tissue thickness compensator 16620 into
the slot 16605. Once the tissue thickness compensator 16620 has
been suitably positioned, the nose 16603 can be released and, owing
to the resiliency of the material comprising the nose 16603, the
nose 16603 can return, or at least substantially return, to its
unflexed condition and trap the distal end 16625 of the tissue
thickness compensator 16620 against the deck surface 16611, as
illustrated in FIG. 270. In use, similar to the above, the distal
end 16625 can be pulled out of the slot 16605 when the support
portion 16610 is moved away from the stapled tissue. In various
circumstances, the flexible nose 16603 can be configured to deflect
as the tissue thickness compensator 16620 is detached from the
support portion 16610. In various embodiments, referring again to
FIG. 270, the tissue thickness compensator 16620 can comprise a top
surface 16621 which is aligned, or at least substantially aligned,
with a top surface 16604 of the nose 16603.
[0668] In various embodiments, referring to FIG. 271, a surgical
stapling instrument can comprise, one, a channel 10770 configured
to receive a staple cartridge 10700 and, two, an anvil 10760
rotatably coupled to the channel 10770. The staple cartridge 10700
can comprise a support portion 10710 and a tissue thickness
compensator 10720. In various embodiments, the tissue thickness
compensator 10720 can be held in position by a nose sock 10703
which can be slid over the support portion 10710. In at least one
embodiment, referring primarily to FIG. 272, the nose sock 10703
can comprise one or more side slots 10707 which can be configured
to removably receive one or more attachment rails extending along
the support portion 10710, for example. In various embodiments, the
tissue thickness compensator 10720 can be positioned intermediate
the side slots 10707. In certain embodiments, the nose sock 10703
can further comprise a distal end 10702 and a cavity 10706 defined
in the distal end 10702 wherein the cavity 10706 can also be
configured to receive at least a portion of the support portion
10710, for example, therein. In use, the nose sock 10703 can be
slid onto the support portion 10710 in a distal to proximal
direction. In various embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator
10720 can be removably mounted to the nose sock 10703 such that,
after staples have been fired through the tissue thickness
compensator 10720, the tissue thickness compensator 10720 can
detach from the nose sock 10703 as the support portion 10710 and
the nose sock 10703 are moved away from the tissue thickness
compensator 10720. In various embodiments, the top surface 10721 of
the tissue thickness compensator 10720 can be positioned below the
top surface 10704 of the nose 10703.
[0669] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 273 and 274,
a surgical stapling instrument can comprise, one, a staple
cartridge channel 11070 configured to receive a staple cartridge
11000 and, two, an anvil 11060 rotatably coupled to the channel
11070. The staple cartridge 11000 can comprise a support portion
11010 and a tissue thickness compensator 11020. In various
embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator 11020 can be held in
position by a one or more longitudinal rails 11019 extending from
the deck 11011 of the support portion 11010. In at least one
embodiment, the longitudinal rails 11019 can be embedded within the
tissue thickness compensator 11020. In certain embodiments,
referring primarily to FIG. 274, the tissue thickness compensator
11020 can comprise a longitudinal recess 11029 which can be
configured to receive the longitudinal rails 11019. In at least one
such embodiment, the recess 11029 can be sized and configured to
receive the rails 11019 in a press-fit arrangement, for example.
Such features, further to the above, can be configured to prevent,
or at least limit, relative lateral movement between the tissue
thickness compensator 11020 and the support portion 11010 and, in
addition, limit the pre-mature release of the tissue thickness
compensator 11020 from the support portion 11010, for example. In
various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 275, a surgical stapling
instrument can comprise, one, a staple cartridge channel 11170
configured to receive a staple cartridge 11100 and, two, an anvil
11160 rotatably coupled to the channel 11170. The staple cartridge
11100 can comprise a support portion 11110 and a tissue thickness
compensator 11120. In various embodiments, the tissue thickness
compensator 11120 can be held in position by one or more
longitudinal rows of spikes, or teeth, 11119 extending from the
deck 11111 of the support portion 11110. In at least one
embodiment, the longitudinal rows of spikes 11119 can be embedded
within the tissue thickness compensator 11120.
[0670] With regard to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 273,
further to the above, the tissue thickness compensator 11020 of the
staple cartridge 11000 can be progressively released from the
support portion 11010 as the staples are ejected from the staple
cavities 10012 defined therein. More particularly, further to the
above, the staples positioned in the staple cavities 10012 can be
ejected sequentially between the proximal end 11001 of the staple
cartridge 11000 and the distal end 11002 of the staple cartridge
11000 such that, as the staples are being ejected, the staples can
apply an upward biasing force to the tissue thickness compensator
11020 which acts to push the tissue thickness compensator 11020 off
of the rails 11019. In such circumstances, the proximal end 11006
of the tissue thickness compensator 11020 can be released from the
support portion 11010 as the staples are ejected from the
proximal-most staple cavities 10012. The tissue thickness
compensator 11020 can then be progressively released from the
support portion 11010 as the staples are progressively ejected from
the support portion 11010 between the proximal end 11001 and the
distal end 11002 of the staple cartridge 11000. When the staples
positioned within the distal-most staple cavities 10012 are ejected
from the support portion 11010, the distal end 11007 of the tissue
thickness compensator 11020 can be released from the support
portion 11010. With regard to the embodiment illustrated in FIG.
275, the tissue thickness compensator 11120 can be progressively
released from the spikes 1119 extending from the support portion
11110 as the staples are progressively ejected from the staple
cartridge between the proximal end 11101 and the distal end
11102.
[0671] As discussed above, a tissue thickness compensator can be
progressively released from the support portion of a staple
cartridge as the staples are progressively ejected from the support
portion and contact the tissue thickness compensator. In various
embodiments, the legs of the staple, such as staple legs 10032, for
example, may be able to pass through the tissue thickness
compensator without releasing the tissue thickness compensator from
the support portion. In such embodiments, the tissue thickness
compensator may remain engaged with the support portion until the
bases of the staples, such as bases 10031, contact the tissue
thickness compensator and push it upwardly. In various embodiments,
however, cleats and/or other retention features extending from the
support portion, for example, may oppose the release of the tissue
thickness compensator from the support portion. In certain
embodiments, as described in greater detail below, a support
portion can comprise retention features which can be configured to
progressively release a tissue thickness compensator from the
support portion as the staples are progressively fired from the
staple cartridge. Referring now to FIG. 283, a staple cartridge,
such as staple cartridge 11200, for example, can comprise a support
portion 11210 including retention features 11213 which can be
configured to releasably hold a tissue thickness compensator 11220
(FIG. 284) to the support portion 11210. In various embodiments,
the retention features 11213 can be positioned at the ends of each
staple cavity 11212, for example, wherein each retention feature
11213 can comprise a guide groove 11216 defined therein which is
configured to slidably receive a staple leg 10032 of a staple
10030. In such embodiments, both the staple legs 10032 and the
retention features 11213 can be configured to releasably retain the
tissue thickness compensator 11220 to the support portion 11210. In
use, referring now to FIG. 284, staple drivers 10040 contained
within the support portion 11210 can be driven upwardly by a sled
10050, as described above, wherein the staple drivers 10040 can be
configured to contact the retention features 11213, at least
partially detach the retention features 11213 from the support
portion 11210, and displace the retention features 11213 outwardly
and away from the staples 10030 and the staple cavities 11212. When
the retention features 11213 are detached from the support portion
11210 and/or displaced outwardly, as illustrated in FIG. 284, the
retention features 11213 may no longer be able to retain the tissue
thickness compensator 11220 to the support portion 11210 and, as a
result, the tissue thickness compensator 11220 can be released from
the support portion 11210. Similar to the above, the tissue
thickness compensator 11220 can be progressively released from the
support portion 11210 as the staples 10030 are progressively
ejected from the staple cartridge toward an anvil, such as anvil
11260, for example. In various embodiments, the staple drivers
10040 may contact the retention features 11213 when the top
surfaces of the staple drivers 10040 become co-planar, or at least
substantially co-planar, with the deck surface 11211 of the support
portion 11210, for example. In such embodiments, the tissue
thickness compensator 11220 may be released from the support
portion 11210 at the same time as and/or just before the staples
10030 are formed to their fully-formed, or fully-fired,
configuration. In at least one such embodiment, referring primarily
to FIG. 285, the drivers 10040 can be overdriven such that they are
pushed above the deck surface 11211 to fully form the staples 10030
and, during the process of being overdriven, break the retention
features 11213 away from the support portion 11210. In various
embodiments, referring again to FIG. 284, the retention features
11213 may extend over, or overhang, into the staple cavities 11212
prior to being detached or displaced outwardly such that the
drivers 10040 can contact the retention features 11213 just as the
drivers 10040 reach the deck surface 11211. In any event, once the
tissue thickness compensator 11220 has been released from the
support portion 11210, referring now to FIG. 285, the support
portion 11210 can be moved away from the implanted tissue thickness
compensator 11220.
[0672] As described above, a compressible tissue thickness
compensator of a staple cartridge can be progressively released
from a support portion, or cartridge body, of the staple cartridge
as the staples are fired, or deployed, from the staple cartridge.
In various circumstances, such a release can comprise a progressive
loosening of the tissue thickness compensator from the support
portion wherein, in some circumstances, a complete detachment of
the tissue thickness compensator from the support portion may not
occur until the anvil is opened and the support portion is moved
away from the implanted tissue thickness compensator. In various
embodiments, referring now to FIG. 289, a staple cartridge, such as
staple cartridge 11300, for example, can comprise a tissue
thickness compensator 11320 which is releasably retained to a
support portion 11310. In at least one embodiment, the support
portion 11310 can comprise a plurality of retention members 11313
extending therefrom which are configured to releasably compress and
hold the longitudinal sides of the tissue thickness compensator
11320 to the support portion 11310. In at least one such
embodiment, each retention member 11313 can comprise an
inwardly-facing channel or slot 11316 which can be configured to
receive the longitudinal sides of the tissue thickness compensator
11320 therein. In various circumstances, a plurality of retention
members 11313 can extend along a first longitudinal side of the
support portion 11310 and a plurality of retention members 11313
can extend along a second longitudinal side of the support portion
11310 wherein, in certain circumstances, the retention members
11313 can be configured to prevent, or at least limit, relative
lateral movement between the tissue thickness compensator 11320 and
the support portion 11310 and, in addition, prevent, or at least
limit, the premature release of the tissue thickness compensator
11320 from the support portion 11310. In various embodiments, the
retention members 11313 can be integrally formed with the support
portion 11310 and, in at least one embodiment, referring to FIG.
290, the retention members 11313 can be configured to detach, or at
least partially detach, from the support portion 11310 in order to
allow the tissue thickness compensator 11320 to detach from the
support portion 11310, as illustrated in FIG. 291, for example. In
certain embodiments, an anvil, such as anvil 11360, for example,
can be configured to compress the tissue thickness compensator
11320 and, in response to pressure generated within the tissue
thickness compensator 11320, the tissue thickness compensator 11320
can expand laterally to at least partially detach, or disengage,
the retention members 11313 from the tissue thickness compensator
11320. In various embodiments, the advancement of a knife member,
discussed above, through the anvil 11360 and the staple cartridge
11300 can deploy the staples contained therein and, simultaneously,
squeeze the anvil 11360 and the staple cartridge 11300 closer to
one another which can apply an added compressive pressure to the
tissue thickness compensator 11320 and thereby cause the retention
members 11313 to sequentially detach as the knife member passes
through the staple cartridge 11300.
[0673] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 292-294, a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 11400, for example, can
comprise a tissue thickness compensator 11420 removably attached to
a support portion 11410. In at least one embodiment, the staple
cartridge 11400 can comprise one or more retainer bars 11413 which
can be configured to hold the longitudinal sides of the tissue
thickness compensator 11420 to the deck surface 11411. In at least
one such embodiment, each retainer bar 11413 can comprise opposing
arms 11418 which can define a channel 11416 therebetween. In such
embodiments, one of the arms 11418 can be configured to extend over
the tissue thickness compensator 11420 and the other arm 11418 can
be configured to extend under a lip 11419 extending from the
support portion 11410. Referring primarily to FIG. 292, the channel
11416 of each retainer bar 11413 can be sized and configured to
apply a compressive force to the longitudinal sides of the tissue
thickness compensator 11420 prior to the staple cartridge 11400
being used. During use, referring primarily to FIG. 293, the staple
cartridge 11400 can be positioned within a staple cartridge channel
and, once the staple cartridge 11400 has been suitably positioned,
an anvil, such as anvil 11460, for example, can be moved into a
position in which it can compress the tissue thickness compensator
11420. Similar to the above, the thickness tissue compensator
11420, when compressed, can expand laterally, or outwardly, and, as
a result, detach the retainer bars 11413 from the staple cartridge
11400. In certain other embodiments, the closing of the anvil 11460
may not detach, or may not completely detach, the retainer bars
11413 from the staple cartridge. In at least one such embodiment,
the advancement of a firing bar, described above, through the
staple cartridge 11400 can deploy the staples 10030 from the
support portion 11410 and, simultaneously, squeeze the anvil 11460
and the staple cartridge 11400 closer together to apply a
compressive force to the tissue thickness compensator 11420 that is
sufficient to cause the tissue thickness compensator 11420 to
expand laterally and detach the retainer bars 11413 from the staple
cartridge 11400. Once the retainer bars 11413 have been detached
from the staple cartridge 11400, referring to FIG. 294, the support
portion 11410 can be moved away from the implanted tissue thickness
compensator 11420 and removed from the surgical site. In certain
alternative embodiments, referring now to FIG. 295, a staple
cartridge 11400' can comprise retainer bars 11413' which, similar
to the above, can comprise arms 11418' extending therefrom. In at
least one such embodiment, each of the arms 11418' can comprise a
wedge-lock bevel 11417' which can be configured to releasably latch
the retainer bars 11413' to the staple cartridge 11400'. More
particularly, in at least one embodiment, the support portion
11410' of the staple cartridge 11400' can comprise undercuts 11419'
which, in co-operation with the wedge-lock bevels 11417', can be
configured to releasably retain the retainer bars 11413' to the
staple cartridge 11400 and inhibit the tissue thickness compensator
11420 from being prematurely detached from the support portion
11410'. During use, similar to the above, the retainer bars 11413'
can be detached from the staple cartridge 11400' when a sufficient
compressive force is applied to the tissue thickness compensator
11420, for example.
[0674] In various circumstances, as described above and referring
again to FIGS. 259 and 260, the sled 10050 of the staple cartridge
10000 and the firing member 10052 of a surgical stapling instrument
can be moved from the proximal end 10001 of the staple cartridge
10000 to the distal end 10002 (FIG. 219) of the staple cartridge
10000 in order to deploy the staples 10030 from the support portion
10010. In at least one such circumstance, each staple 10030 can be
moved from an unfired position to a fired position and ejected from
the support portion 10010 to capture the entirety of the tissue
thickness compensator 10020 against the tissue positioned between
the anvil 10060 and the staple cartridge 10000. In certain
circumstances, a surgeon may not need to fire all of the staples
10030 from the staple cartridge 10000 and the surgeon may stop the
progression of the sled 10050 and the firing bar 10052 at a point
located intermediate the proximal end 10001 and the distal end
10002 of the staple cartridge 10000. In such circumstances, the
tissue thickness compensator 10020 may only be partially implanted
to the tissue T and, in order to detach the unimplanted portion of
the tissue thickness compensator 10020 from the support portion
10010, the surgeon can pull the support portion 10010 away from the
partially implanted tissue thickness compensator 10020 such that
the unimplanted portion peels or pulls off of the support portion
10010. While such embodiments are suitable in various
circumstances, an improvement is illustrated in FIGS. 300-302
wherein a tissue thickness compensator, such as tissue thickness
compensator 11520 of staple cartridge 11500, for example, can
comprise a plurality of connected segments which can be configured
to detach from one another. In at least one such embodiment, the
tissue thickness compensator 11520 can comprise a first, or
proximal-most, segment 11520a, a second segment 11520b removably
connected to the first segment 11520a, a third segment 11520c
removably connected to the second segment 11520b, a fourth segment
11520d removably connected to the third segment 11520c, and a fifth
segment 11520e removably connected to the fourth segment 11520d,
for example. In various embodiments, the tissue thickness
compensator 11520 can comprise at least one thin section 11529
positioned intermediate any two adjacent segments 11520a-11520e
which can be configured to define a pre-determined rupture or
separation point in which the tissue thickness compensator segments
can separate from one another. In certain embodiments, a tissue
thickness compensator can include any suitable arrangement of
perforations, thin sections, and/or any other means for creating a
separation point within the tissue thickness compensator. Referring
primarily to FIG. 301, an anvil 11560 is illustrated in a closed
position and the firing member 10052 is illustrated as having been
partially advanced through the staple cartridge 11500 such that the
staples 10030 underlying the first segment 11520a, the second
segment 11520b, and the third segment 11520c have been fired to
capture the tissue thickness compensator 11520 against the tissue
T. In such a position, the firing member 10052 has not yet been
advanced to deploy the staples 10030 underlying the fourth segment
11520d and the fifth segment 11520e, for example. Referring now to
FIG. 302, the anvil 11560 has been moved into an open position and
the support portion 11510 of the staple cartridge 11500 has been
moved away from the portion of the tissue thickness compensator
11520 that has been implanted. As illustrated in FIG. 302, the thin
section 11529 (FIG. 300) located intermediate the third segment
11520c and the fourth segment 11520d has allowed the unimplanted
portion of the tissue thickness compensator 11520 to separate from
the implanted portion.
[0675] In various embodiments, further to the above, a staple
cartridge can comprise a plurality of fasteners configured to
releasably hold a tissue thickness compensator to a support portion
of the staple cartridge. In certain embodiments, the support
portion can comprise a plurality of apertures defined in the deck
surface, for example, wherein the fasteners can extend through the
tissue thickness compensator and can be releasably retained in the
support portion apertures. In use, the fasteners can be
progressively released from the support portion as the staples are
progressively ejected from the support portion. In at least one
such embodiment, the fasteners can be implanted with the tissue
thickness compensator and, in at least one embodiment, the
fasteners can be comprised of at least one bioabsorbable material,
for example. In certain embodiments, the fasteners can detach from
the support portion after the tissue thickness compensator has been
at least partially implanted and as the support portion is moved
away from the implanted tissue thickness compensator. In various
embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 323-325, a staple cartridge,
such as staple cartridge 11600, for example, can comprise a tissue
thickness compensator 11620 releasably mounted to a support portion
11610 by a plurality of fasteners 11613. Each fastener 11613 can
comprise a first end 11618 embedded within and/or otherwise engaged
with the tissue thickness compensator 11620, a second end 11618
engaged with the support portion 11610, and a connector 11616 which
connects the first end 11618 to the second end 11618. In various
embodiments, the fasteners 11613 can extend through a knife slot
11615 defined in the support portion 11610. In use, the firing
member 10052, described above, can move a knife edge through the
knife slot 11615 in the support portion 11610 and incise the
fasteners 11613 in order to release the tissue thickness
compensator 11620 from the support portion 11610. In at least one
such embodiment, the firing bar 10052 can be advanced from a
proximal end 11601 of the staple cartridge 11600 to a distal end
11602 of the staple cartridge 11600 in order to, one, advance the
sled 10050 distally and progressively fire the staples 10030, as
discussed above, and, two, progressively incise and/or break the
fasteners 11613 to progressively release the tissue thickness
compensator 11620 from the support portion 11610. In certain
embodiments, similar to the above, the tissue thickness compensator
11620 can comprise a plurality of detachable segments 11620a-11620e
which can each be held to support portion 11610 by one or more
fasteners 11613, for example. In the event that the firing member
10052 is stopped intermediate the proximal end 11601 and the distal
end 11602 of the staple cartridge 11600, as illustrated in FIG.
324, the fasteners 11613 can assist in holding the unimplanted
portion of the tissue thickness compensator 11620 to the support
portion 11610 after the anvil 11660 is opened and the support
portion 11610 is moved away from the tissue T, as illustrated in
FIG. 325. In various embodiments, further to the above, the cutting
edge 10053 of the firing member 10052 can be configured to incise
and/or break the fasteners 11613. In certain alternative
embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 327 and 328, a staple-deploying
sled, such as sled 11650, for example, can comprise a knife edge
11653 which can be configured to incise the connectors 11616 of the
fasteners 11613 as the sled 11650 traverses the staple cartridge
11600. In at least one such embodiment, each connector 11616 can
comprise a cylindrical member extending between the T-shaped ends
11618 of the fasteners 11613 wherein the knife edge 11653 can
comprise a concave profile 11653 which can be configured to receive
the cylindrical connector 11616, for example.
[0676] As discussed above, a staple cartridge can be loaded into a
staple cartridge channel of a surgical stapling instrument. In
various circumstances, a surgeon, or other clinician, may insert
the staple cartridge into the staple cartridge channel by placing a
downward force onto the staple cartridge to lock the staple
cartridge in place. In some such circumstances, the clinician may
place their thumb, for example, on the top surface of the staple
cartridge to apply such a downward force. In various embodiments,
the top surface of the staple cartridge may comprise the top
surface of a tissue thickness compensator wherein, as described
above, the tissue thickness compensator can be compressible and, in
certain embodiments, the downward force applied to tissue thickness
compensator can cause the tissue thickness compensator to compress
to the point in which the clinician's thumb comes into contact with
the tips of the staples stored within the support portion. In
various embodiments, a staple cartridge applicator can be utilized
to insert a staple cartridge into a staple cartridge channel which
can be configured to prevent, or at least limit, the possibility of
the clinician touching the staples in the staple cartridge. After
the staple cartridge has been suitably positioned within the staple
cartridge channel, as described in greater detail below, the
applicator can be detached from the staple cartridge.
[0677] In certain embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 305 and 306,
a staple cartridge applicator can comprise a rigid cover, such as
cover 10080, for example, which can be attached to a staple
cartridge 10000. Further to the above, the cover 10080 can be
configured to prevent, or at least inhibit, a clinician's thumb,
for example, from contacting the tips of the staples 10030
positioned within the staple cartridge 10000 when the staple
cartridge 10000 is inserted into a staple cartridge channel.
Referring now to FIGS. 307 and 308, the cover 10080 can extend over
the top surface 10021, or at least a portion of the top surface
10021, of the tissue thickness compensator 10020 and can include,
one, a bottom surface 10081 which can extend over and/or abut the
tissue thickness compensator 10020 and, two, a top surface 10082
which can provide a pushing surface for the clinician to apply a
downward force thereto, for example. In use, the clinician can grab
a handle portion 10084 of the cover 10080, align the support
portion 10010 of the staple cartridge 10000 with the staple
cartridge channel, and at least partially insert the staple
cartridge 10000 within the staple cartridge channel. Thereafter,
the clinician can completely seat the staple cartridge 10000 in the
staple cartridge channel by applying the downward force to the top
surface 10082 of the cover 10880 which can, in various embodiments,
transmit the downward force directly to the support portion 10010.
In at least one such embodiment, the cover 10080 can comprise
proximal supports 10087 which can extend downwardly and contact the
deck surface 10011 of the support portion. In certain embodiments,
the cover 10080 can further comprise a distal support portion 10083
which can be configured to abut the nose 10003. When a downward
force is applied the cover 10080, the downward force can be
transmitted through the proximal supports 10087 and/or the distal
support portion 10083 without transmitting, or at least without
substantially transmitting, the downward force to the support
portion 10010 through the tissue thickness compensator 10020. In
various circumstances, as a result of the above, the clinician may
not directly contact the tissue thickness compensator 10020. Also
as a result of the above, the cover 10080 may not compress, or at
least substantially compress, the tissue thickness compensator
10020 as the staple cartridge 10000 is being inserted into the
staple cartridge channel. In various embodiments, a cover can
comprise any suitable number of supports which are configured to
transmit a downward force to the support portion without
transmitting, or at least substantially transmitting, the downward
force through the tissue thickness compensator. In certain
embodiments, the supports can extend around the distal end, the
proximal end, and/or the longitudinal sides of the tissue thickness
compensator. In some embodiments, the supports can extend through
the tissue thickness compensator. In at least one such embodiment,
the supports can extend through apertures within the tissue
thickness compensator and abut the deck of the support portion. In
certain embodiments, at least some of the supports may not be in
contact with the deck before the downward force is applied to the
cover; however, in various embodiments, the cover can be configured
to flex, or move, downwardly until the supports contact the deck of
the support portion. At such point, the downward flexure, or
movement, of the cover can be impeded, or at least substantially
impeded, from flexing further.
[0678] As described above, the cover 10080 can be attached to the
staple cartridge 10000 and can be used to manipulate the position
of the staple cartridge 10000. In various embodiments, the cover
10080 can comprise any suitable number of gripping members which
can be configured to releasably hold the cover 10080 to the support
portion 10010 of the staple cartridge 10000, for example. In at
least one such embodiment, the cover 10080 can further comprise one
or more retention members, such as latch arms 10088 and/or 10089,
for example. In various embodiments, the latch arms 10089 can be
configured to extend around the sides of the nose 10003 and engage
the bottom surface 10009 (FIG. 306) of the nose 10003. Similarly,
the latch arms 10088 can extend around the sides of lock
projections 10008 extending from the support portion 10010 and
engage the bottom surfaces of the lock projections 10008. These
latch arms, in various embodiments, can be configured to position
the cover 10080 over the zone or region in which the staples are
stored within the support portion 10010. In any event, once the
staple cartridge 10000 has been suitably positioned, the cover
10080 can be detached from the staple cartridge 10000. In at least
one embodiment, the clinician can apply an upward lifting force to
the handle 10084 in order to detach the distal end of the cover
10080 from the distal end 10002 of the staple cartridge 10000. In
at least one such embodiment, the latch arms 10088 and 10089 can
flex outwardly as the handle 10084 is lifted upwardly such that the
latch arms 10088 and 10089 can flex around the lock projections
10008 and the nose 10003, respectively. Thereafter, the proximal
end of the cover 10080 can be lifted away from the proximal end
10001 of the staple cartridge and the cover 10080 can be moved away
from the staple cartridge 10000.
[0679] In certain embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 309 and 310,
a staple cartridge applicator, such as staple cartridge applicator
10680, for example, can be configured to position an upper tissue
thickness compensator, such as tissue thickness compensator 10690,
for example, relative to an anvil in addition to positioning a
staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 10600, for example,
within a staple cartridge channel. Similar to the above, the
applicator 10680 can comprise latch arms 10688 which can be
releasably engaged with lock projections 10608 extending from a
support portion 10610 of the staple cartridge 10600 such that the
applicator 10680 can be maintained in position over a tissue
thickness compensator 10620 of the staple cartridge 10600. In
various embodiments, the upper tissue thickness compensator 10690
can be removably attached to the staple cartridge applicator 10680
such that the anvil of a surgical instrument, such as anvil 10060,
for example, can be closed onto the applicator 10680, engage the
tissue thickness compensator 10690, and detach the tissue thickness
compensator 10690 from the applicator 10680. In various
embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator 10690 and/or the
anvil 10060 can comprise one or more retention features which can
be configured to releasably hold the tissue thickness compensator
10690 to the anvil 10060. In at least one such embodiment, the
tissue thickness compensator 10690 can comprise a longitudinal rail
10695, for example, extending from the top surface 10691 of the
tissue thickness compensator 10690 which can be received within a
longitudinal knife slot 10065 defined within the anvil 10060. In
various embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator 10690 and the
longitudinal rail 10695 can be comprised of any suitable
compressible material, such as those described in the this patent
application, for example, wherein the longitudinal rail 10695 can
be compressed and/or wedged within the knife slot 10065, for
example. Once the anvil 10060 has been engaged with the tissue
thickness compensator 10690, the anvil 10060 can be returned to an
open position and, in such circumstances, the tissue thickness
compensator 10690 can detach from the applicator 10680. Thereafter,
the applicator 10680 can be detached from the staple cartridge
10600 such that the anvil 10060 and the staple cartridge 10600 can
be positioned relative to the tissue that is to be stapled and/or
incised. In use, a staple-deploying sled, such as sled 10050 (FIG.
236), for example, can be advanced distally through the staple
cartridge 10600 by a firing member 10052 (FIG. 236), for example,
in order to eject the staples from the staple cartridge 10060, as
outlined above. As the staples are deformed, each staple can
capture a portion of the tissue thickness compensator 10690 against
the top surface of the tissue and a portion of the tissue thickness
compensator 10620 against the bottom surface of the tissue. At the
same time, the firing member 10052 can advance a knife edge 10053
(FIG. 236) through the tissue thickness compensator 10620 and/or
the tissue thickness compensator 10690 wherein, in at least one
embodiment, the knife edge 10053 can be advanced through the
longitudinal rail 10695 in order to incise the rail 10695 and
progressively detach the tissue thickness compensator 10690 from
the anvil 10060. After the staples have been deployed, the anvil
10060 can be re-opened and moved away from the implanted tissue
thickness compensator 10690 and, similarly, the support portion
10610 of the staple cartridge 10600 can be moved away from the
implanted tissue thickness compensator 10620. In various
embodiments, further to the above, the tissue thickness compensator
10620 and/or the tissue thickness compensator 10690 can comprise a
plurality of detachable segments which can be configured to
separate from one another in the event that only portions of the
tissue thickness compensators 10620 and 10690 are implanted by the
staples.
[0680] In various embodiments, further to the above, the applicator
10680 can comprise one or more retention features which can be
configured to releasably hold the tissue thickness compensator
10690 to the applicator 10680. In at least one such embodiment,
referring primarily to FIG. 310, the applicator 10680 can comprise
a longitudinal retention rail 10685 which can be configured to be
received in a longitudinal retention slot 10694 defined in the
bottom surface 10692 of the tissue thickness compensator 10690 in a
press-fit manner, for example. In various circumstances, the
retention rail 10685 and the retention slot 10694 can be configured
to retain the tissue thickness compensator 10690 to the applicator
10680 until a sufficient upward lifting force is applied to the
tissue thickness compensator 10690 by the anvil 10060, as described
above. In at least one such embodiment, the retention rail 10685
extending from the applicator 10680 can further comprise end stops
10686 positioned at the proximal and distal ends of the retention
rail 10685 which can be configured to prevent, or at least limit,
relative longitudinal movement between the tissue thickness
compensator 10690 and the applicator 10680. In certain embodiments,
referring again to FIG. 310, one or more adhesives, such as
longitudinal adhesive strips 10693, for example, can be placed on
the contact surface 10691 of the tissue thickness compensator 10690
such that, when the anvil 10060 contacts the tissue thickness
compensator 10690, as described above, the adhesive can releasably
attach the tissue thickness compensator 10690 to the anvil 10060.
In various embodiments, one or more adhesives can be utilized in
addition to or in lieu of the compressible retention features
described above, for example. In certain embodiments, one or more
adhesives can be utilized to releasably hold a tissue thickness
compensator to a staple cartridge applicator. In at least one
embodiment, referring now to FIG. 310A, the cover 10080, for
example, can include one or more adhesive pads 12185 which can be
configured to releasably retain an upper tissue thickness
compensator, such as tissue thickness compensator 12190, for
example, to the top surface 10082 of the cover 10080. In at least
one such embodiment, similar to the embodiments described above, an
anvil can be closed onto to the tissue thickness compensator 12190
to engage the longitudinal retention rail 12195 of the tissue
thickness compensator 12190. In certain embodiments, a release
mechanism can be positioned intermediate the tissue thickness
compensator 12190 and the cover 10080 which can be utilized to
break the adhesive bonds holding the tissue thickness compensator
12190 to the cover 10080 and detach the tissue thickness
compensator 12190 from the cover 10080. In at least one embodiment,
the release mechanism can comprise a pull tab 12196 and a loop
12197 wherein the loop 12197 can comprise first and second ends
which are attached to the pull tab 12196. The loop 12197 can
comprise a suture, for example, which can define a perimeter which
circumscribes the adhesive pads 12185 such that, when the pull tab
12196 is pulled distally, the suture can slide between the tissue
thickness compensator 12190 and the cover 10080 and contact the
tissue pads 12185. In such circumstances, the suture can at least
one of separate the adhesive pads 12185 from the tissue thickness
compensator 12190, separate the adhesive pads 12185 from the cover
10080, and/or sever the adhesive pads 12185, for example.
[0681] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 311, a staple
cartridge can comprise a support portion 10710, for example, which,
similar to the above, can comprise a longitudinal knife slot 10715
extending therethrough. In at least one such embodiment, a staple
cartridge applicator, such as applicator 10780, for example, can
comprise a longitudinal retention and alignment member 10786 which
can extend into the knife slot 10715 in the support portion 10710.
In certain embodiments, the retention member 10786 can be
configured to engage the sidewalls of the knife slot 10715 in a
press-fit manner, for example, such that the applicator 10780 can
be releasably retained to the support portion 10710. In various
embodiments, although not illustrated, a first portion of a tissue
thickness compensator can be positioned on a first side of the
retention member 10786 and a second portion of the tissue thickness
compensator can be positioned on an opposite, or second, side of
the retention member 10786. Similar to the above, the first and
second portions of the tissue thickness compensator can be mounted
to the support portion 10710 of the staple cartridge via retention
members 10013, for example. Also similar to the above, an upper
tissue thickness compensator 10790 can be removably mounted to the
applicator 10780 via a longitudinal retention member 10785
extending from the loading surface 10782 of the applicator 10780
wherein the retention member 10785 can be releasably press-fit into
a longitudinal slot 10794 defined in the bottom surface 10792 of
the tissue thickness compensator 10790, for example. In various
embodiments, also similar to the above, the tissue thickness
compensator 10790 can further comprise a longitudinal retention
member 10795 extending from the top surface 10791 of the tissue
thickness compensator 10790 which can be releasably retained in the
longitudinal knife slot 10065 defined in the anvil 10060, for
example. In at least one such embodiment, the longitudinal
retention member 10795 can comprise a wedge-shaped cross-section
comprising a top portion which is larger than a bottom portion,
wherein the bottom portion can attach the retention member 10795 to
the tissue thickness compensator 10790, for example.
[0682] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 312 and 313,
a staple cartridge 10800 comprising a support portion 10810 and a
tissue thickness compensator 10820 can be loaded into a staple
cartridge channel with a staple cartridge applicator 10880, for
example. Similar to the above, the staple cartridge applicator
10880 can also be configured to position an upper tissue thickness
compensator 10890, for example, relative to an anvil, such as anvil
10060, for example, such that, when the anvil 10060 is closed, the
anvil 10060 can contact and engage the tissue thickness compensator
10890. In at least one embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator
10890 can comprise a plurality of retention legs 10895 extending
from the top surface 10891 of the tissue thickness compensator
10890 which can be configured to be engage the anvil 10060 and
releasably retain the tissue thickness compensator 10890 to the
anvil 10060. In at least one such embodiment, the legs 10895 can be
arranged in a longitudinal row wherein each leg 10895 can comprise
at least one foot configured to enter into and engage the knife
slot 10065 defined in the anvil 10060. In certain embodiments, some
of the feet of legs 10895 can extend in one direction while other
feet can extend in another direction. In at least one embodiment,
some of the feet can extend in opposite directions. In any event,
once the anvil 10060 has been engaged with the tissue thickness
compensator 10890, referring now to FIGS. 313 and 314, the anvil
10060 can be reopened and the clinician can move the staple
cartridge applicator 10880 away from the tissue thickness
compensators 10820 and 10890. Thereafter, referring to FIG. 314A,
the upper tissue thickness compensator 10890 can be positioned on a
first side of the targeted tissue and the tissue thickness
compensator 10820, which can comprise a lower tissue thickness
compensator, can be positioned on a second side of the tissue.
After the tissue thickness compensators 10820 and 10890 have been
suitably positioned, referring now to FIG. 314B, a knife edge of a
firing member, such as knife edge 10053, for example, can be
advanced through the tissue and the tissue thickness compensators.
In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 318, a staple
cartridge applicator, such as applicator 12280, for example, can
comprise a tissue thickness compensator 12290 detachably mounted
thereto which can be, similar to the above, inserted into a staple
cartridge channel, as illustrated in FIG. 319, and engaged by the
anvil 10060 when the anvil 10060 is moved into a closed position.
In at least one such embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator
12290 can comprise a plurality of retention members 12295 extending
upwardly from the top surface 12291 of the tissue thickness
compensator 12290 wherein each retention member 12295 can comprise
a plurality of flexible legs 12296 which can be configured to be
inserted into the knife slot 10065 in the anvil 10060. Referring
primarily to FIGS. 321 and 322, the flexible legs 12296 of each
retention member 12295 can be separated by a gap 12298 such that,
as the legs 12296 are inserted into the knife slot 10065, the legs
12296 can flex inwardly and then resiliently return outwardly once
the enlarged feet of the flexible legs 12296 have passed through
the knife slot 10065. In various embodiments, the enlarged feet of
the flexible legs 12296 can flex behind opposing retention lips
12297 defined in the anvil 10060 and, as a result of the
interaction of the legs 12296 and the lips 12297, the tissue
thickness compensator 12290 can be retained to the anvil 10060.
Thereafter, the staple cartridge applicator 12280 can be moved away
from the tissue thickness compensator 12290, as illustrated in FIG.
320. In use, once the tissue thickness compensator 12290 has been
implanted against the tissue by staples deployed from staple
cartridge 10000, for example, the anvil 10060 can be re-opened and,
as the anvil 10060 is moved away from the implanted tissue
thickness compensator 12290, the legs 12296 of the retention
members 12995 can flex inwardly such that they can be pulled out of
the knife slot 10065.
[0683] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 315 and 316,
a tissue thickness compensator, such as tissue thickness
compensator 11990, for example, can be loaded longitudinally into
an anvil, such as anvil 11960, for example. More particularly, in
at least one embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator 11990 can
comprise one or more longitudinal rails 11995 which can be inserted
into a distal opening in a knife slot 11965 of the anvil 11960 and
then pushed proximally until the tissue thickness compensator 11990
has been properly seated in the anvil 11960. In at least one such
embodiment, each rail 11995 can comprise a longitudinal retention
foot 11996 which can be positioned behind a longitudinal retention
lip 11997 which at least partially defines the knife slot 11965,
for example. As illustrated in FIG. 316, the feet 11996 can extend
in opposite directions in order to be positioned behind retention
lips 11997 positioned on the opposite sides of the knife slot
11965. In various embodiments, a longitudinal gap 11998 can be
defined between the rails 11995 which can be configured to permit
the rails 11995 to flex inwardly toward one another when the tissue
thickness compensator 11990 is detached from the anvil 11960. In
certain embodiments, referring now to FIG. 317, a tissue thickness
compensator, such as tissue thickness compensator 12090, for
example, can comprise one or more lock arms 12098 which can extend
around the sides of an anvil, such as anvil 12060, for example. In
use, the lock arms 12098 can engage the anvil 12060 and releasably
retain the tissue thickness compensator 12090 to the anvil 12060.
In at least one such embodiment, the anvil 12060 can comprise one
or more notches, or lock shoulders, 12097, for example, which can
each be configured to receive a foot extending from a lock arm
12098. In use, the arms 12098 can flex outwardly and detach from
the anvil 12060 when the anvil 12060 is moved away from the tissue
thickness compensator 12090 after the tissue thickness compensator
12090 has been at least partially implanted.
[0684] As described above, a surgical stapling instrument can
comprise a staple cartridge channel configured to receive a staple
cartridge, an anvil rotatably coupled to the staple cartridge
channel, and a firing member comprising a knife edge which is
movable relative to the anvil and the staple cartridge channel. In
use, a staple cartridge can be positioned within the staple
cartridge channel and, after the staple cartridge has been at least
partially expended, the staple cartridge can be removed from the
staple cartridge channel and replaced with a new staple cartridge.
In some such embodiments, the staple cartridge channel, the anvil,
and/or the firing member of the surgical stapling instrument may be
re-used with the replacement staple cartridge. In certain other
embodiments, a staple cartridge may comprise a part of a disposable
loading unit assembly which can include a staple cartridge channel,
an anvil, and/or a firing member, for example, which can be
replaced along with the staple cartridge as part of replacing the
disposable loading unit assembly. Certain disposable loading unit
assemblies are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/031,817, entitled END EFFECTOR COUPLING ARRANGEMENTS FOR A
SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT, which was filed on Feb.
15, 2008, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0206131,
the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.
Referring now to FIG. 370, a disposable loading unit, such as
disposable loading unit 12500, for example, can comprise a support
portion 12510, an anvil 12560 rotatably coupled to the support
portion 12510, and an elongate shaft 12570 extending from the
support portion 12510. Similar to the staple cartridges described
herein, the support portion 12510 can comprise a plurality of
staple cavities 10012 and a staple, such as a staple 10030, for
example, positioned in each staple cavity 10012, for example. The
disposable loading unit 12500 can further comprise a firing member
12552 which can be advanced distally in order to move the anvil
12560 from an open position, as illustrated in FIG. 370, to a
closed position. In various embodiments, the disposable loading
unit 12500 can further comprise a tissue thickness compensator
12520 positioned on and/or attached to the support portion 12510
wherein, when the anvil 12560 is in its closed position, the anvil
12560 can be positioned opposite the tissue thickness compensator
12520 and, in some embodiments, the anvil 12560 can at least
partially compress the tissue thickness compensator 12520 when the
anvil 12560 is in its closed position. In either event, the firing
member 12552 can be advanced further in order to eject the staples
from the support portion 12510. As the staples are ejected, the
staples can be deformed by the anvil 12560 and trap at least a
portion of the tissue thickness compensator 12520 therein.
Thereafter, the firing member 12552 can be retracted proximally,
the anvil 12560 can be re-opened, and the support portion 12510 can
be moved away from the implanted tissue thickness compensator
12520.
[0685] In various embodiments, further to the above, the tissue
thickness compensator 12520 can be detachably mounted to the
support portion 12510. In at least one such embodiment, the support
portion 12510 can comprise a longitudinal retention rail 12526
mounted to each side thereof wherein each rail 12526 can comprise
one or more apertures 12528 which can be configured to receive at
least a portion of the tissue thickness compensator 12520 therein.
Once the tissue thickness compensator 12520 has been at least
partially implanted, the tissue thickness compensator 12520 can
pull out of the apertures 12528 as the support portion 12510 is
moved away. In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 371-373,
a disposable loading unit 12600 can comprise a support portion
12610, a tissue thickness compensator 12620 detachably mounted to
the support portion 12610, and one or more retention rails 12626
which can be configured to extend under the tissue thickness
compensator 12620 and mount the tissue thickness compensator 12620
to the support portion 12610. Each retention rail 12626 can
comprise a plurality of retention hooks 12628, for example, which
can be engaged to the support portion 12610 via retention slots
12614, for example, defined in the support portion 12610. In use,
in at least one such embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator
12620 can be configured to detach from the retention rails 12626
after the tissue thickness compensator 12620 has been at least
partially implanted and the support portion 12610 is moved away
from the tissue thickness compensator 12620. In various
embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 374-376, a disposable loading
unit 12700 can comprise one or more retention rails 12726 which can
each comprise a bottom bar 12725 which can extend under the tissue
thickness compensator 12720 and a top bar 12727 which can extend
over the top surface 12621 of the tissue thickness compensator
12620. In certain embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator
12620 can be at least partially compressed between the top bars
12727 and the bottom bars 12725 such that the retention rails 12726
can releasably hold the tissue thickness compensator 12620 relative
to the support portion 12610. In at least one such embodiment, each
retention rail 12726 can comprise one or more retention hooks 12728
which can be engaged with the support portion 12610 to retain the
retention rails 12726 to the support portion 12610.
[0686] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 377 and 378,
a disposable loading unit 12800 can comprise a retention member
12822 which can be configured to mount a tissue thickness
compensator 12620 to the support portion 12610. In at least one
such embodiment, the retention member 12822 can comprise a sheet of
material positioned against the deck surface 12611 of the support
portion wherein the tissue thickness compensator 12620 can be
attached to the sheet of material by at least one adhesive, for
example. The retention member 12822 can further comprise a
longitudinal retention rail 12825 configured to extend downwardly
into a knife slot 12615 defined in the support portion 12610. In at
least one such embodiment, the retention rail 12825 can be sized
and configured such that it is compressed between the sidewalls of
the knife slot 12615. In use, the firing member 12552 can comprise
a knife edge which can pass through the knife slot 12615 as the
firing member 12552 is advanced distally and transect the tissue
thickness compensator 12620 and the retention rail 12825
longitudinally. Also, in use, the staples ejected from the support
portion 12610 can penetrate the retention member 12822, the tissue
thickness compensator 12820, and the tissue positioned between the
tissue thickness compensator 12820 and the anvil 12560. In various
embodiments, the retention member 12822 can be comprised of a
biocompatible and/or bioabsorbable material. In certain
embodiments, the retention member 12822 can be comprised of a
sufficiently compressible material to comprise a tissue thickness
compensator underlying the tissue thickness compensator 12620. In
various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 379-381, a disposable
loading unit 12900 can comprise a loading assembly including a
bottom portion 12922 which can be removably attached to the support
portion 12610, a top portion 12990 which can be removably attached
to the anvil 12560, and a flexible joint 12991 connecting the
bottom portion 12922 and the top portion 12990. Similar to the
above, a longitudinal retention rail 12825 can extend downwardly
from the bottom portion 12922 and into the knife slot 12615 defined
in the support portion 12610 such that the bottom portion 12922 can
be releasably retained to the support portion 12610. Similarly, a
longitudinal retention rail 12995 can extend upwardly from the top
portion 12990 into a knife slot defined in the anvil 12560 such
that the top portion 12990 can be releasably retained to the anvil
12560. As illustrated in FIGS. 380 and 381, a tissue thickness
compensator 12620 can be mounted to the bottom portion 12922 of the
loading assembly wherein, in order to position the tissue thickness
compensator 12620 relative to the support portion 12610, a
clinician could flex the top portion 12990 and the bottom portion
12922 toward one another, position the loading assembly between the
anvil 12560 and the support portion 12610, and release the flexed
loading assembly such that it can resiliently expand and bias the
top portion 12990 against the anvil 12560 and the bottom portion
12922 against the support portion 12610. In at least one
embodiment, referring now to FIGS. 382-384, the loading assembly
can further comprise one or more latch hooks, such as latch hooks
12994, for example, extending therefrom which can be configured to
releasably connect the top portion 12990 to the anvil 12560 and/or
releasably connect the bottom portion 12922 to the support portion
12610.
[0687] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 385, a
disposable loading unit 15900, for example, can comprise an anvil
15960 and a staple cartridge channel 15970 wherein the staple
cartridge channel 15970 can rotate relative to the anvil 15960. In
at least one such embodiment, the anvil 15960 may not be able to
rotate. In certain embodiments, tissue can be positioned between
the anvil 15960 and the staple cartridge channel 15970 and,
thereafter, the staple cartridge channel 15970 can be rotated
toward the tissue to clamp the tissue against the anvil. In at
least one such embodiment, the disposable loading unit 15900 can
further comprise a tissue thickness compensator 15920 which can be
configured to contact the tissue.
[0688] As discussed above and referring to FIG. 332, a staple
cartridge, such as staple cartridge 10000, for example, can
comprise a support portion 10010 and a tissue thickness compensator
10020 wherein a plurality of staples 10030 can be at least
partially stored in the support portion 10010 and can extend into
the tissue thickness compensator 10020 when the staples 10030 are
in their unfired position. In various embodiments, the tips of the
staples 10030 do not protrude from the tissue thickness compensator
10020 when the staples 10030 are in their unfired positions. As the
staples 10030 are moved from their unfired positions to their fired
positions by the staple drivers 10040, as discussed above, the tips
of the staples 10030 can penetrate through the tissue thickness
compensator 10020 and/or penetrate through the upper layer, or
skin, 10022. In certain alternative embodiments, the tips of the
staples 10030 can protrude through the top surface of the tissue
thickness compensator 10020 and/or skin 10022 when the staples
10030 are in their unfired position. In either event, the staples
10030, as they extend upwardly out of the support portion 10010
prior to being deployed, may tilt and/or deflect relative to the
support portion, as also discussed above. In various embodiments,
referring now to FIG. 329, a staple cartridge, such as staple
cartridge 13000, for example, can comprise a plurality of guide
members, or retainers, which can be configured to limit relative
movement between the support portion 13010 of the staple cartridge
13000 and the tips of the staples positioned therein. Referring
primarily to FIG. 330, the staple cartridge 13000 can comprise a
tissue thickness compensator 13020 mounted to a support portion
13010 and, in addition, a plurality of pledgets 13022 attached to
the top surface 13021 of the tissue thickness compensator 13020. In
various embodiments, each pledget 13022 can comprise a plurality of
apertures 13029 defined therein which can be configured to slidably
receive and/or guide the legs 13022 of a staple 13030 therein. In
addition to or in lieu of the apertures, a pledget can comprise any
suitable opening such as a slot, guide, and/or groove, for example,
which can be configured to slidably receive and/or guide the legs
13022. In certain embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 330, the tips
of the staple legs 13032 can be positioned within the apertures
13029 when the staples 13030 are in their unfired positions. In at
least one such embodiment, the tips of the staple legs 13032 can
protrude above the pledgets 13022 when the staples are in their
unfired position. In certain other embodiments, the tips of the
staple legs 13032 may be positioned just below the pledgets 13022
when the staples 13030 are in their unfired positions such that,
when the staples 13030 are moved upwardly through the tissue
thickness compensator 13020, the staple legs 13032 can enter into
the apertures 13029 of the pledgets 13022 and slide therethrough.
In any event, when the legs 13032 of the staples 13030 are
positioned within the pledgets, the lateral and/or longitudinal
movement of the staple legs 13032 can be limited without preventing
the upward movement of the staple legs 13032 when the staples 13030
are deployed. When the staples 13030 are deployed, referring now to
FIG. 331, the staple legs 13032 can slide upwardly through the
pledgets 13022 to penetrate the tissue T, contact an anvil
positioned opposite the staple cartridge 13030, and deform
downwardly to capture the tissue T and the tissue thickness
compensator 13030 therein.
[0689] In various embodiments, further to the above, the pledgets
13022 can be attached to the tissue thickness compensator 13020
utilizing at least one biocompatible and/or bioabsorbable adhesive,
for example. In certain embodiments, the pledgets 13022, and/or a
retention member extending from each pledget, can be at least
partially embedded within the tissue thickness compensator 13020.
In at least one such embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator
13020 can comprise pockets defined therein which are configured to
at least partially receive a pledget 13022. In certain embodiments,
the tissue thickness compensator 13020 can be integrally molded, or
formed around, the pledgets 13022 during a molding manufacturing
process. In various embodiments, the pledgets 13022 may comprise
discrete retainers that can move independently of one another. In
at least one embodiment, referring primarily to FIG. 330, each
pledget 13022 can comprise interlocking and/or keyed features which
can be configured to permit and, to a certain extent, limit
relative lateral and longitudinal movement between the pledgets
13022. In at least one such embodiment, each pledget 13022 can
comprise a projection 13026 and one or more recesses 13027, for
example, wherein the projection 13026 of a first pledget 13022 can
be positioned within and/or aligned with respect to the recesses of
13027 of adjacent second and third pledgets 13022. In various
embodiments, gaps can be present between adjacent pledgets 13022
which can permit the pledgets 13022 to move or slide relative to
one another until they contact an adjacent pledget 13022. In
certain embodiments, the pledgets 13022 can be loosely
interconnected. In various embodiments, the pledgets 13022 can be
detachably connected to one another. In at least one such
embodiment, the pledgets 13022 can be manufactured as a sheet of
interconnected pledgets wherein, when a sufficient force is applied
to the sheet, one or more of the pledgets 13022 can break away from
the others. In certain embodiments, referring again to FIG. 329, a
first sheet 13024 of pledgets 13022 can be positioned on a first
side of a longitudinal slot 13025 and a second sheet 13024 of
pledgets 13022 can be positioned on a second side of slot 13025. In
at least one embodiment, further to the above, the longitudinal
slot 13025 extending through the tissue thickness compensator 13020
can be configured to facilitate the passage of a knife edge of a
firing member through the tissue thickness compensator 13020 and,
as the firing member passes thereby, the firing member can apply a
compressive force to the sheets 13024 and separate or singulate at
least some of the pledgets 13022.
[0690] In various embodiments, the pledgets 13022 can be comprised
of a biocompatible and/or bioabsorbable plastic, for example. In
certain embodiments, the pledgets 13022 can be comprised of a solid
material, a semi-solid material, and/or a flexible material, for
example. In certain embodiments, the pledgets 13022 can be embedded
within a tissue thickness compensator such that the pledgets 13022
move with the tissue thickness compensator. In at least one such
embodiment, the pledgets 13022 can be sufficiently flexible such
that they can flex with the top surface of the tissue thickness
compensator. In certain embodiments, the pledgets 13022 can be
configured to remain embedded in the tissue thickness compensator
while, in certain other embodiments, the pledgets 13022 can be
configured to pop out of, or detach from, the tissue thickness
compensator. In various embodiments, the pledges 13022 can comprise
a top surface which is flush with the top surface of the tissue
thickness compensator. In certain embodiments, the top surfaces of
the pledgets 13022 can be positioned above and/or below the top
surface of the tissue thickness compensator. In various
embodiments, the top surfaces of the pledgets 13022 can be disposed
such that they are visible when viewing the top surface of the
tissue thickness compensator while, in other embodiments, the top
surfaces of the pledgets 13022 can be positioned below a layer of
the tissue thickness compensator, for example. In certain
embodiments, guide features can be molded into the top surface of a
tissue thickness compensator, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator may not comprise a
composite material and may comprise a unitary piece of material,
for example.
[0691] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 338, a staple
cartridge can comprise a tissue thickness compensator 13620 and a
skin, or top layer, 13621, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, one or more pledgets, or retainers, 13622, for example,
can be embedded in the skin 13621. In certain embodiments, each
retainer 13622 can comprise one or more apertures 13629 defined
therein which can be configured to receive the staple legs 13032 of
staples 13030 therein when the staples 13030 are in their unfired
position, as illustrated in FIG. 338. In use, further to the above,
the staple legs 10032 can slide through the apertures 13629 when
the staples 13030 are moved from their unfired position to their
fired position until the bases 13031 of the staples 13030 contact
the tissue thickness compensator 13620 and compress at least a
portion of the tissue thickness compensator 13620 against the
bottom surfaces of the pledgets 13622, for example. In various
embodiments, referring now to FIG. 333, a staple cartridge can
comprise a tissue thickness compensator 13120 and a skin, or top
layer, 13122, for example. In at least one such embodiment, the
tissue thickness compensator 13120 can comprise conical bumps,
projections, and/or protrusions 13128, for example, which can
extend upwardly from the top surface 13121 of the tissue thickness
compensator 13120. The projections 13128 can be configured to
receive and envelop the tips of the staple legs 13032 of the
staples 13030 when the staples 13030 are in their unfired position,
as illustrated in FIG. 333. The top layer 13122 can also comprise
conical bumps, projections, and/or protrusions 13129 which can be
aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the projections
13128. In use, the staple legs 10032 can penetrate the projections
13128 and 13129 and emerge from the tissue thickness compensator
13120. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 337, a staple
cartridge can comprise a tissue thickness compensator 13520 and a
skin, or top layer, 13522, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, the skin 13522 can comprise conical bumps, projections,
and/or protrusions 13529, for example, which can extend upwardly
from the top surface 13521 of the tissue thickness compensator
13520. Similar to the above, the projections 13529 can be
configured to receive and envelop the tips of the staple legs 13032
of the staples 13030 when the staples 13030 are in their unfired
position, as illustrated in FIG. 337. In use, the staple legs 10032
can penetrate the projections 13529 and emerge from the skin
13522.
[0692] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 334, a staple
cartridge can comprise a tissue thickness compensator 13220 and a
skin, or top layer, 13222, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator 13220 can comprise
conical dimples and/or recesses 13128, for example, which can
extend downwardly into the top surface 13221 of the tissue
thickness compensator 13220. In various embodiments, the tips of
the staple legs 13032 can extend through the recesses 13128 when
the staples 13030 are in their unfired position, as illustrated in
FIG. 334. In at least one embodiment, the top layer 13222 can also
comprise conical dimples and/or recesses 13229 which can be
aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the recesses
13228. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 335, a staple
cartridge can comprise a tissue thickness compensator 13320 and a
skin, or top layer, 13322, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, the skin 13320 can comprise thick portions 13329 which
can extend downwardly into the top surface 13321 of the tissue
thickness compensator 13320. In various circumstances, the thick
portions 13329 can be configured to receive at least a portion of
the staple legs 13032 of the staples 13030 therein when the staples
13030 are in their unfired position, as illustrated in FIG. 335. In
such embodiments, the thick portions 13329 can hold the staple legs
13032 in position such that the legs 13032 are aligned, or at least
substantially aligned, with the staple-forming pockets of an anvil
positioned opposite the tissue thickness compensator 13320. In
various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 336, a staple cartridge
can comprise a tissue thickness compensator 13420 and a skin, or
top layer, 13422, for example. In at least one such embodiment, the
skin 13422 can comprise thick portions 13429 which can extend
upwardly from the top surface 13421 of the tissue thickness
compensator 13420. In various circumstances, the thick portions
13429 can be configured to receive at least a portion of the staple
legs 13032 of the staples 13030 therein when the staples 13030 are
in their unfired position, as illustrated in FIG. 336. In such
embodiments, the thick portions 13429 can hold the staple legs
13032 in position such that the legs 13032 are aligned, or at least
substantially aligned, with the staple-forming pockets of an anvil
positioned opposite the tissue thickness compensator 13420.
[0693] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 339 and 340,
a staple cartridge can comprise a tissue thickness compensator
13720 and a skin, or top layer, 13721, for example. In at least one
such embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator 13720 can
comprise pyramidal and/or stepped bumps, projections, and/or
protrusions 13728, for example, which can extend upwardly from the
top surface 13721 of the tissue thickness compensator 13720. The
projections 13728 can be configured to receive and envelop the tips
of the staple legs 13032 of the staples 13030 when the staples
13030 are in their unfired position, as illustrated in FIG. 340.
Similarly, the top layer 13721 can comprise pyramidal and/or
stepped bumps, projections, and/or protrusions 13729 which can be
aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the projections
13728. In various embodiments, the skin 13721 can further comprise
one or more teeth 13727 extending upwardly from the projections
13729 which can be configured to engage tissue positioned against
the top layer 13721 and prevent, or at least limit, relative
lateral and/or longitudinal movement between the tissue, the top
layer 13721, and/or the tips of the staple legs 13032. In use, the
staple legs 13032 can penetrate the projections 13728 and 13729 and
emerge from the tissue thickness compensator 13720 when the staples
13030 are moved from their unfired positions to their fired
positions. In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 341 and
342, a staple cartridge can comprise a tissue thickness compensator
13820 and a skin, or top layer, 13821, for example. In at least one
such embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator 13820 can
comprise pyramidal and/or stepped bumps, projections, and/or
protrusions 13828, for example, which can extend upwardly from the
top surface 13821 of the tissue thickness compensator 13820. The
projections 13828 can be configured to receive and envelop the tips
of the staple legs 13032 of the staples 13030 when the staples
13030 are in their unfired position, as illustrated in FIG. 342.
Similarly, the top layer 13821 can comprise pyramidal and/or
stepped bumps, projections, and/or protrusions 13829 which can be
aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the projections
13828. In various embodiments, the top layer 13821 can further
comprise one or more teeth 13827 extending downwardly into the
tissue thickness compensator 13820 which can be configured to
prevent, or at least limit, relative lateral and/or longitudinal
movement between the top layer 13821 and the tissue thickness
compensator 13820, for example. In use, the staple legs 10032 can
penetrate the projections 13828 and 13829 and emerge from the
tissue thickness compensator 13820 when the staples 13030 are moved
from their unfired positions and their fired positions.
[0694] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 343, a staple
cartridge can comprise a tissue thickness compensator, such as
tissue thickness compensator 13920, for example, which can include
ridges 13923 and valleys 13924 defined therein wherein, in at least
one embodiment, the valleys 13924 can be defined between the ridges
13923. In various embodiments, each ridge 13923 can comprise the
same height, substantially the same height, or different heights.
Similarly, each valley 13924 can comprise the same depth,
substantially the same depth, or different depths. In various
embodiments, a plurality of staples 13030 can be at least partially
stored within the tissue thickness compensator 13920 such that the
tips of the staples 13030 can be positioned within the ridges
13923. In at least one such embodiment, the staple legs 13032 of
the staples 13030 may not protrude from the tissue thickness
compensator 13920 and/or a skin, or top layer, 13921 attached to
the tissue thickness compensator 13920, for example, when the
staples 13030 are stored in their unfired position. In various
embodiments, the ridges 13923 and/or the valleys 13924 can extend
laterally across the staple cartridge. In at least one such
embodiment, the staple cartridge can comprise a longitudinal knife
slot wherein the ridges 13923 and the valleys 13924 can extend in a
direction which is transverse and/or perpendicular to the knife
slot. In various circumstances, the ridges 13923 can be configured
to hold the tips of the staple legs 13032 in position until the
staples 13030 are moved from their unfired position into their
fired position. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 344,
a tissue thickness compensator, and/or a skin covering a tissue
thickness compensator, can comprise longitudinal ridges and/or
valleys. In at least one such embodiment, a tissue thickness
compensator can comprise a top surface defined by ridges 14023 and
valleys 14024, wherein the valleys 14024 can be defined between the
ridges 14023, for example. In various embodiments, the tissue
thickness compensator can comprise a skin 14021 which can include a
plurality of apertures 14029 defined therein which can each be
configured to receive a staple leg 13032. In certain embodiments,
the apertures 14029 can be defined in the ridges 14023 wherein the
tips of the staple legs 13032 may be positioned below the peaks
14028 of the ridges 14029, positioned flush with the peaks 14028,
and/or positioned above the peaks 14028. In certain embodiments, in
addition to or in lieu of the above, the apertures 14029 can be
defined in the valleys 14024, for example. In certain embodiments,
each aperture can be surrounded, or at least partially surrounded,
by an embossment, for example, which can strengthen the skin and/or
tissue thickness compensator surrounding the apertures. In any
event, further to the above, the skin 14021 can be attached to a
tissue thickness compensator in any suitable manner, including
using at least one adhesive, for example.
[0695] As described above and referring again to FIG. 233, a
surgical stapling instrument can comprise an anvil, such as anvil
10060, for example, which can be moved between an open position and
a closed position in order to compress tissue T against the tissue
thickness compensator 10020 of a staple cartridge 10000, for
example. In various circumstances, the anvil 10060 can be rotated
toward the staple cartridge 10000 until its downward movement is
stopped by some portion of the staple cartridge 10000 and/or some
portion of the channel in which the staple cartridge 10000 is
positioned. In at least one such circumstance, the anvil 10060 can
be rotated downwardly until its downward movement is resisted by
the nose 10003 of the staple cartridge 10000 and/or the tissue T
positioned intermediate the nose 10003 and the staple cartridge
10000. In some circumstances, the anvil 10060 may sufficiently
compress the tissue thickness compensator 10020 to permit the
tissue T to contact the tips of the staples 10030. In certain
circumstances, depending on the thickness of the tissue T, the
anvil 10060 may sufficiently compress the tissue thickness
compensator 10020 such that the anvil 10060 comes into contact with
the staples 10030 by the time the anvil 10060 has reached its fully
closed position. Stated another way, in such circumstances, the
anvil 10060 may deform the staples 10030 prior to the firing member
10052 being advanced into the staple cartridge 10000 to fire the
staples 10030. Such circumstances may be acceptable in certain
embodiments; however, referring now to FIGS. 358 and 359, other
embodiments are envisioned in which a distal gap-setting element,
such as element 10059, for example, can be utilized to limit the
distance in which the anvil 10060 can be closed prior to the firing
bar 10052 being advanced into the staple cartridge 10000. In
various embodiments, the element 10059 can extend upwardly from the
top surface 10021 of the tissue thickness compensator 10020 such
that the downward movement of the anvil 10060 can be arrested as
the tissue T is compressed against the element 10059 and a
resistive force is generated therebetween. In use, as described
above, the firing member 10052 can be advanced distally into the
staple cartridge 10000 toward the distal end 10002 of the staple
cartridge 10000 in order to eject the staples 10030 from the
support portion 10010. Simultaneously, the firing member 10052 can
engage the anvil 10060 and position the anvil 10060 a desired
distance from the deck surface 10011 (FIG. 218) of the support
portion 10010 over the staples 10030 being formed. In this way, the
firing member 10052 can control the distance, or gap, between the
tissue-contacting surface of the anvil 10060 and the deck surface
10011 at a particular location, wherein this particular location
can be advanced distally as the firing member 10052 is advanced
distally. In various circumstances, this gap distance may be
shorter than the gap between the anvil 10060 and the deck surface
10011 being controlled or dictated by the distal gap-setting
element 10059 at the distal end of the tissue thickness compensator
10020. In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 359, the knife
edge 10053 of the firing member 10052 can be configured to transect
the distal gap-setting element 10059 when the firing member 10052
reaches the distal end of the tissue thickness compensator 10020
such that, after the element 10059 has been transected, the firing
member 10052 can pull the anvil 10060 downwardly toward the support
portion 10010 and close the gap to the desired gap height when
firing the staples 10030 at the distal end of the staple cartridge
10000. In certain alternative embodiments, a distal gap-setting
element can be configured to collapse as the firing member
approaches the distal end of the staple cartridge. In at least one
such embodiment, the distal gap-setting element can comprise a
column which can provide resistance to the anvil as described above
and then suddenly buckle once the buckling strength of the
gap-setting element has been reached when the firing member
approaches the distal end of the staple cartridge. In at least one
embodiment, this buckling force can be approximately 10 lbf, for
example. In certain embodiments, a gap setting element can be
configured to drop downwardly into the deck of the support portion
when a force exceeding a predetermined amount is applied to the gap
setting element, for example. In certain other embodiments, the
distal gap can be controlled by the nose of the staple cartridge.
In at least one such embodiment, the downward movement of the anvil
10060 can be limited by the nose until the firing member has
reached the distal end of the cartridge wherein, at such point, the
compressive force applied to the nose can cause the nose to
collapse. In certain embodiments, the nose can comprise a cavity
defined by cavity walls which can allow the cavity to collapse once
the compressive force applied thereto has exceed a predetermined
force. In at least one such embodiment, the cavity can be defined
by collapsible walls.
[0696] In various embodiments, as described above, an anvil, such
as anvil 10060, for example, can be moved between an open position
and a closed position in order to compress a tissue thickness
compensator between the anvil and the support portion of a staple
cartridge. In certain circumstances, referring now to FIGS. 360 and
361, the tissue thickness compensator of a staple cartridge, such
as tissue thickness compensator 14120 of staple cartridge 14100,
for example, may expand laterally and/or longitudinally when the
tissue thickness compensator 14120 is compressed against a support
portion 14110 of the staple cartridge 14100. In certain
embodiments, the ends and/or sides of the tissue thickness
compensator 14120 may not be constrained by the support portion
14110 and/or the anvil 10060 and, as a result, the tissue thickness
compensator 14120 can expand in those directions without generating
a compressive pressure, or at least an undesirable compressive
pressure, within the tissue thickness compensator 14120. In such
embodiments, a firing member, such as firing member 10052 (FIG.
236), for example, passing through the tissue thickness compensator
14120 may not be unduly impeded by an undesirable compressive
pressure within the tissue thickness compensator 14120, for
example. In certain other embodiments, referring again to FIG. 360,
the distal end 14125 of the tissue thickness compensator 14120 may
be constrained by the nose 14103 of the staple cartridge 14100, for
example. In this particular embodiment, similar to the above, the
distal end 14125 of the tissue thickness compensator 14120 may be
constrained by the nose 14103 in order to reduce the possibility of
the tissue thickness compensator 14120 from becoming prematurely
detached from the support portion 14110. In any event, as a result
of the above, a large internal pressure can be generated within the
distal end 14125 which can impede the advancement of the firing
member 10052, especially when the firing member 10052 reaches the
distal end 14125. More particularly, in certain circumstances, the
firing member 10052 can push, plow, and/or displace the tissue
thickness compensator 14120 distally as it transects the tissue
thickness compensator 14120 and, as a result, an even larger
internal pressure can be created within the distal end 14125 of the
tissue thickness compensator 14120. In order to at least partially
dissipate this pressure within the tissue thickness compensator
14120, the nose 14103 can be comprised of a flexible material which
can allow the nose 14103 to flex distally, for example, and create
additional space for the tissue thickness compensator 14120. In
certain embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 362 and 363, the nose
of a staple cartridge can comprise a portion which can slide
distally. More particularly, the nose 14203 of the staple cartridge
14200 can comprise a slidable portion 14204 which can be slidably
connected to the nose 14203 such that, when the anvil 10060 is
closed and/or the firing member 10052 is advanced into the distal
end of the staple cartridge 14200, the slidable portion 14204 can
slide distally and create additional room for the tissue thickness
compensator 14200 and at least partially alleviate the internal
pressure therein. In at least one embodiment, one of the nose 14203
and the slidable portion 14204 can comprise one or more rails and
the other of the nose 14203 and the slidable portion 14204 can
comprise one or more channels configured to slidably receive the
rails therein. In at least one such embodiment, the channels and
rails can be configured to co-operatively limit the movement of the
slidable portion 14204 to a longitudinal distal path, for
example.
[0697] In various circumstances, further to the above, certain
staples, such as the distal-most staples within a staple cartridge,
for example, can capture a larger portion of a tissue thickness
compensator than the proximal staples within the staple cartridge.
In such circumstances, as a result, a large clamping pressure can
be applied to the tissue captured within the distal staples as
compared to the proximal staples. These circumstances can arise
when at least a portion of the tissue thickness compensator is
shifted to and/or gathered at the distal end of the staple
cartridge during use, as described above, eventhough the tissue
thickness compensator may be comprised of a substantially
homogenous material having a substantially constant thickness. In
various circumstances, it may be desirable for certain staples to
apply a higher clamping pressure to the tissue than other staples
wherein, in various embodiments, a support portion and/or a tissue
thickness compensator can be constructed and arranged to control
which staples may apply the higher clamping pressure to the tissue
and which staples may apply a lower clamping pressure to the
tissue. Referring now to FIG. 364, a staple cartridge 14300 can
comprise a support portion 14310 and, in addition, a tissue
thickness compensator 14320 positioned on the deck surface 14311 of
the support portion 14310. As compared to other embodiments
disclosed in this application which comprise a support portion
14310 having a flat, or at least substantially flat, deck surface,
the deck surface 14311 can be inclined and/or declined between the
distal end 14305 and the proximal end 14306 of the support portion
14310. In at least one embodiment, the deck surface 14311 of the
support portion 14310 can comprise a deck height at its distal end
14305 which is shorter than the deck height at its proximal end
14306. In at least one such embodiment, the staples 10030 at the
distal end of the staple cartridge 14300 can extend above the deck
surface 14311 a larger distance than the staples 10030 at the
proximal end. In various alterative embodiments, the deck surface
of a support portion can comprise a height at its distal end which
is taller than its height at its proximal end. Referring again to
FIG. 364, the tissue thickness compensator 14320 may comprise a
thickness which is different along the longitudinal length thereof.
In various embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator 14320 can
comprise a thickness at its distal end 14325 which is thicker than
its proximal end 14326, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator 14322 can comprise a
bottom surface 14322 which can be inclined or declined to match, or
at least substantially match, the inclined or declined deck surface
14311 of the support portion 14310. As a result, the top, or
tissue-contacting, surface 14321 of the tissue thickness
compensator 14320 can comprise a flat, or at least substantially
flat, surface upon which the tissue T can be positioned. In any
event, as the tissue thickness compensator 14320 is thicker at its
distal end 14325, the distal staples 10030 can capture a larger
portion of the tissue thickness compensator 14320 therein than the
proximal staples 10030 and, as a result, the distal staples 10030
can apply a larger compressive force to the tissue T, especially
when the gap distance between the anvil 10060 and the deck surface
14311 is constant, or at least substantially constant, at the
proximal and distal ends of the staple cartridge. In certain
circumstances, however, the anvil 10060 may not reach a fully
closed position and, as a result, the gap distance between the
anvil 10060 and the deck surface 14311 may be larger at the distal
end of the staple cartridge 14300 than the proximal end. In various
circumstances, the distal staples 10030 may not be fully formed
and, as a result, the distal staples 10030 may not apply the
desired clamping pressure to the tissue T. In the embodiments where
the tissue thickness compensator is thicker at the distal end of
the staple cartridge, the tissue thickness compensator may
compensate for the underforming of the staples and apply a
sufficient pressure to the tissue T.
[0698] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 365, a staple
cartridge, such as staple cartridge 14400, for example, can
comprise a support portion 14410 and, in addition, a tissue
thickness compensator 14420 positioned on the deck surface 14411 of
the support portion 14410. Similar to the above, the deck surface
14411 can be inclined and/or declined such that, in at least one
embodiment, the distal end 14405 of the support portion 14410 can
have a deck height which is shorter than the deck height at the
proximal end 14406, for example. In certain embodiments, the tissue
thickness compensator 14420 can comprise a constant, or at least
substantially constant, thickness along the length thereof and, as
a result, the top, or tissue-contacting, surface 14421 of the
tissue thickness compensator 14420 may parallel, or at least
substantially parallel, the contour of the deck surface 14411. In
various embodiments, the staples 10030 of the staple cartridge
14400 can be completely embedded within the tissue thickness
compensator 14420 and the support portion 14410 when the staples
10030 are in their unfired position. In certain embodiments, the
staples 10030 positioned at the proximal end of the staple
cartridge 14400 may be completely embedded within the tissue
thickness compensator 14420 and the support portion 14410 when the
staples 10030 are in their unfired position whereas, due to the
declined slope of the deck 14411 and top surface 14421, the tips of
certain staples 10030, including the staples 10030 positioned at
the distal end of the staple cartridge 14400, can protrude through
the top surface 14421 of the tissue thickness compensator 14420
when the staples 10030 are in their unfired position.
[0699] In various embodiments, as described above, a tissue
thickness compensator can be comprised of a single material wherein
the entirety of the tissue thickness compensator can have the same,
or at least substantially the same, material properties, such as
density, stiffness, spring rate, durometer, and/or elasticity, for
example, throughout. In various other embodiments, referring now to
FIG. 368, a tissue thickness compensator, such as tissue thickness
compensator 14520, for example, can comprise a plurality of
materials or layers of materials. In at least one embodiment, the
tissue thickness compensator 14520 can comprise a first, or
central, layer 14520a, second, or intermediate, layers 14520b
attached to the first layer 14520a on opposite sides thereof, and a
third, or outer layer 14520c attached to each of the second layers
14520b. In certain embodiments, the intermediate layers 14520b can
be attached to the central layer 14520a utilizing at least one
adhesive and, similarly, the outer layers 14520c can be attached
the second layers 14520 utilizing at least one adhesive. In
addition to or in lieu of an adhesive, the layers 14520a-14520c can
be held together by one or more interlocking features and/or
fasteners, for example. In any event, the inner layer 14520a can be
comprised of a first material having a first set of material
properties, the intermediate layers 14520b can be comprised of a
second material having a second set of material properties, and the
outer layers 14520c can be comprised of a third material having a
third set of material properties, for example. These sets of
material properties can include density, stiffness, spring rate,
durometer, and/or elasticity, for example. In certain embodiments,
a staple cartridge can comprise six rows of staples 10030, for
example, wherein a row of staples 10030 can be at least partially
positioned in each of the outer layers 14520c and each of the inner
layers 14520b, for example, and wherein two rows of staples 10030
can be at least partially positioned with the inner layer 14520a.
In use, similar to the above, the staples 10030 can be ejected from
the staple cartridge such that the staple legs 10032 of the staples
10030 penetrate the top surface 14521 of the tissue thickness
compensator 14520, penetrate tissue positioned against the top
surface 14521 by an anvil, and then contact the anvil such that the
legs 10032 are deformed to capture the tissue thickness compensator
14520 and the tissue within the staples 10030. Also similar to the
above, the tissue thickness compensator 14520 can be transected by
a firing member as the firing member is advanced through the staple
cartridge. In at least one such embodiment, the firing member can
transect the inner layer 14520a, and the tissue, along a path
defined by axis 14529, for example.
[0700] In various embodiments, further to the above, the rows of
staples 10030 positioned within the inner layer 14520a can comprise
the staple rows which are closest to the edges of the transected
tissue. Correspondingly, the rows of staples 10030 positioned
within the outer layers 14520c can comprise the staple rows which
are furthest away from the edges of the transected tissue. In
certain embodiments, the first material comprising the inner layer
14520a may comprise a density which is higher than the density of
the second material comprising the intermediate layers 14520b and,
similarly, the density of the second material may be higher than
the density of the third material comprising the outer layers
14520c, for example. In various circumstances, as a result, larger
compressive forces can be created within the staples 10030
positioned within the inner layer 14520a as compared to the
compressive forces generated within the staples 10030 positioned
within the intermediate layers 14520b and the outer layers 14520c.
Similarly, larger compressive forces can be created within the
staples 10030 positioned within the intermediate layers 14520b as
compared to compressive forces created within the staples 10030
positioned within the outer layers 14520c, for example. In various
alternative embodiments, the first material comprising the inner
layer 14520a may comprise a density which is lower than the density
of the second material comprising the intermediate layers 14520b
and, similarly, the density of the second material may be lower
than the density of the third material comprising the outer layers
14520c, for example. In various circumstances, as a result, larger
compressive forces can be created within the staples 10030
positioned within the outer layers 14520c as compared to the
compressive forces created within the staples 10030 positioned
within the intermediate layers 14520b and the inner layer 14520a.
Similarly, larger compressive forces can be created within the
staples 10030 positioned within the intermediate layers 14520b as
compared to the compressive forces created within the staples 10030
positioned within the inner layer 14520a, for example. In various
other embodiments, any other suitable arrangement of layers,
materials, and/or material properties could be utilized. In any
event, in various embodiments, the layers 14520a-14520c of the
tissue thickness compensator 14520 can be configured to remain
attached to one another after they have been implanted. In certain
other embodiments, the layers 14520a-14520c of the tissue thickness
compensator 14520 can be configured to detach from one another
after they have been implanted. In at least one such embodiment,
the layers 14520a-14520c can be bonded together utilizing one or
more bioabsorbable adhesives which can initially hold the layers
together and then allow the layers to release from one another over
time.
[0701] As described above, a tissue thickness compensator of a
staple cartridge, such as tissue thickness compensator 14520, for
example, can comprise a plurality of longitudinal layers. In
various other embodiments, referring now to FIG. 369, a staple
cartridge can comprise a tissue thickness compensator, such as
tissue thickness compensator 14620, for example, which can comprise
a plurality of horizontal layers. In at least one such embodiment,
the tissue thickness compensator 14620 can comprise a first, or
bottom, layer 14620a, a second, or intermediate, layer 14620b
attached to the bottom layer 14620a, and a third, or top, layer
14620c attached to the intermediate layer 14620b. In various
embodiments, the first layer 14620a can comprise a flat, or
substantially flat, bottom surface 14626a and a triangular, or
pyramidal, top surface 14625a, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, the second layer 14620b can comprise a triangular, or
pyramidal, bottom surface 14626b which can be configured to
parallel and abut the top surface 14625a of the first layer 14620a.
Similar to the above, the second layer 14620b can comprise a
triangular, or pyramidal, top surface 14625b which can parallel and
abut a bottom triangular, or pyramidal, bottom surface 14626c of
the third layer 14620c, for example. In various embodiments, the
top surface of the third layer 14626c can comprise a flat, or at
least substantially flat, tissue-contacting surface 14621. Also
similar to the above, the tissue thickness compensator 14620 can be
configured to at least partially store six rows of staples, such as
staples 10030, for example, therein wherein a firing member can
transect the tissue thickness compensator 14620 between the two
innermost staple rows along a path extending through axis 14629,
for example. Similar to the above, each layer 14620a, 14620b, and
14620c can be comprised of a different material which can comprise
different material properties and, as a result of the triangular,
or pyramidal, configuration of the layers 14620a-14620c, the tissue
thickness compensator 14620 can have different overall properties
at various locations therewithin. For example, the outermost rows
of staples 10030 may capture more of the third layer 14620c than
the first layer 14620a therein whereas the innermost rows of
staples 10030 may capture less of the third layer 14620c than the
first layer 14620a and, as a result, the tissue thickness
compensator 14620 may compress the tissue captured within the
outermost staples 10030 differently than the tissue captured within
the innermost staples 10030, for example, eventhough the tissue
thickness compensator 14620 may have the same, or at least
substantially the same, overall thickness thereacross.
[0702] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 286, a tissue
thickness compensator of a staple cartridge, such as tissue
thickness compensator 14720 of staple cartridge 14700, for example,
can comprise voids, pockets, channels, and/or grooves, for example,
defined therein which can vary the thickness of the tissue
thickness compensator 14720. In at least one such embodiment, the
tissue thickness compensator 14720 can be positioned against the
deck surface 14711 of a support portion 14710 of the staple
cartridge 14700 such that voids 14723 defined in the bottom surface
14722 of the tissue thickness compensator 14720 can overlie certain
staple cavities 10012, but not others. In various embodiments, the
voids 14723 can extend transversely to the knife slot 14715 of the
support portion 14710, perpendicular to the knife slot 14715,
and/or parallel to the knife slot 14715, for example. In certain
embodiments, the voids 14723 can define a tread pattern in the
bottom surface 14722 of the tissue thickness compensator 14720. In
any event, when staples, such as staples 10030, for example, are
deployed from the support portion 14710, referring now to FIGS. 287
and 288, certain staples 10030 can capture the tissue thickness
compensator 14720 within a region containing a void 14723 while
other staples 10030 can capture the tissue thickness compensator
14720 within a region positioned intermediate the voids 14723. In
addition to or in lieu of the above, the tissue thickness
compensator 14720 can comprise voids, pockets, channels, and/or
grooves, for example, defined in the top, or tissue-contacting,
surface 14721. In certain embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 366
and 367, a staple cartridge 14800 can comprise a tissue thickness
compensator 14820 which can include a plurality of treads 14823
extending at least one of upwardly from a top surface 14821 of the
tissue thickness compensator 14820, inwardly toward a central
groove 14825, and/or distally toward the distal end of the staple
cartridge 14800, for example. In at least one such embodiment, the
treads 14823 can be separated by channels, slots, and/or grooves,
such as channels 14824, for example. In various circumstances, as a
result of the above, the overall thickness of the tissue thickness
compensator can vary between staple rows and/or vary between the
staples within a staple row. In certain circumstances, the treads,
or thick portions, can be constructed and arranged such that they
can flow in a desire direction, such as inwardly, for example, when
the tissue thickness compensator is compressed.
[0703] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 303, a staple
cartridge, such as staple cartridge 14900, for example, can
comprise a support portion 14910 and, in addition, a tissue
thickness compensator 14920 positioned against the support portion
14910. Similar to the above, the support portion 14910 can comprise
staple drivers which can be lifted upwardly by a staple-deploying
sled in order to lift staples, such as staples 10030, for example,
at least partially positioned within the support portion 14910
toward an anvil, such as anvil 10060, for example, positioned
opposite the staple cartridge 14900. In certain embodiments, the
support portion 14910 can comprise six rows of staple cavities,
such as two outer rows of staple cavities, two inner rows of staple
cavities, and two intermediate rows of staple cavities positioned
intermediate the inner rows and the outer rows, for example,
wherein the anvil 10060 can comprise six rows of forming pockets
10062 aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the staple
cavities. In various embodiments, the inner rows of staple cavities
can include staple drivers 14940a positioned therein, the
intermediate rows of staple cavities can include staple drivers
14940b positioned therein, and the outer rows of staple cavities
can include staple drivers 14940c positioned therein, wherein each
of the staple drivers 14940a can include a cradle 14949a configured
to support a staple 10030, wherein each of the staple drivers
14940b can include a cradle 14949b configured to support a staple
10030, and wherein each of the staple drivers 14940c can include a
cradle 14949c configured to support a staple 10030. In their
unfired positions, i.e., when the staple drivers 14940a-14940c are
sitting on driver supports 14926 which extend underneath the
support portion 14910, the cradles 14949a of the staple drivers
14940a can be positioned closer to the anvil 10060 than the cradles
14949b of the staple drivers 14940b and the cradles 14949c of the
staple drivers 14940c. In such a position, a first forming distance
can be defined between the cradles 14949a and the forming pockets
10062 positioned over the cradles 14949a, a second forming distance
can be defined between the cradles 14949b and the forming pockets
10062 positioned over the cradles 14949b, and a third forming
distance can be defined between the cradles 14949c and the forming
pockets 10062 positioned over the cradles 14949c, wherein, in
various embodiments, the first forming distance can be shorter than
the second forming distance and the second forming distance can be
shorter than the third forming distance, for example. When the
staple drivers 14940a-14940c are moved from their unfired positions
(FIG. 303) to their fired positions, each staple driver
14940a-14940c can be moved upwardly an equal, or an at least
substantially equal, distance toward the anvil 10060 by the
staple-deploying sled such that the first drivers 14940a drive
their respective staples 10030 to a first formed height, the second
drivers 14940b drive their respective staples 10030 to a second
formed height, and the third drivers 14940c drive their respective
staples 10030 to a third formed height, wherein the first formed
height can be shorter than the second formed height and the second
formed height can be shorter than the third formed height, for
example. Various other embodiments are envisioned in which the
first staple drivers 14940a are displaced upwardly a first
distance, the second staple drivers 14940b are displaced upwardly a
second distance, and the third staple drivers 14940c are displaced
upwardly a third distance, wherein one or more of the first
distance, the second distance, and the third distance can be
different.
[0704] In various embodiments, referring again to FIG. 303, the
deck surface 14911 of the support portion 14910 can vary in height
with respect to the tissue-contacting surface 10061 of the anvil
10060. In certain embodiments, this height variation can occur
laterally and, in at least one embodiment, the height of the deck
surface 14911 surrounding the inner rows of staple cavities can be
higher than the deck surface 14911 surrounding the outer rows of
staple cavities, for example. In various embodiments, the bottom
surface 14922 of the tissue thickness compensator 14920 can be
configured to parallel, or at least substantially parallel, the
deck surface 14911 of the support portion 14910. Further to the
above, the tissue thickness compensator 14920 can also vary in
thickness wherein, in at least one embodiment, the top, or
tissue-contacting, surface 14921 of the tissue thickness
compensator 14920 can slope inwardly from the outside or lateral
edges thereof. In at least one such embodiment, as a result of the
above, the tissue thickness compensator 14920 can be thinner in a
region positioned over the inner rows of staple cavities and
thicker in a region positioned over the outer rows of staple
cavities, for example. In various embodiments, referring now to
FIG. 304, the deck surface of a support portion 15010 can comprise
a stepped deck surface, for example, wherein the highest steps of
the stepped surface can surround the inner rows of staple cavities
and the lowest steps of the stepped surface can surround the outer
rows of staple cavities, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, steps having an intermediate height can surround the
intermediate rows of staple cavities. In certain embodiments, a
tissue thickness compensator, such as tissue thickness compensator
15020, for example, can comprise a bottom surface which can
parallel and abut the deck surface of the support portion 15010. In
at least one embodiment, the top, or tissue-contacting, surface
15021 of the tissue thickness compensator can comprise an arcuate,
parabolic, and/or curved surface, for example, which, in at least
one such embodiment, can extend from a first lateral side of the
tissue thickness compensator 15020 to a second lateral side of the
tissue thickness compensator 15020 with an apex aligned, or at
least substantially aligned, with the center of the staple
cartridge 15000, for example. In various embodiments, referring now
to FIG. 299, a staple cartridge 15300, for example, can comprise a
support portion 15310, a plurality of staple drivers 15340 movably
positioned within staple cavities defined in the support portion
15310, and a tissue thickness compensator 15320 positioned above
the deck surface 15311 of the support portion 15310. The staple
cartridge 15300 can further comprise one or more bottom pan
portions 15326 which can be attached to the support portion 15310
and extend around the bottom of the support portion 15310 and
support the drivers 15340, and staples 15330, in their unfired
positions. As a staple-deploying sled is advanced through the
staple cartridge, the sled can also be supported by the bottom pan
portions 15326 as the sled lifts the staple drivers 15340 and the
staples 15330 upwardly through the tissue thickness compensator
15320. In at least one embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator
15320 can comprise a first, or inner, portion 15322a positioned
over an inner row of staple cavities, a second, or intermediate
portion 15322b positioned over an intermediate row of staple
cavities, and a third, or outer, portion 15322c positioned over a
row of staple cavities, wherein the inner portion 15322a can be
thicker than the intermediate portion 15322b and the intermediate
portion 15322b can be thicker than the outer portion 15322c, for
example. In at least one embodiment, the tissue thickness
compensator 15320 can comprise longitudinal channels, for example,
defined therein which can create the thinner portions 15322b and
15322c of the tissue thickness compensator 15320. In various
alternative embodiments, the longitudinal channels can be defined
in the top surface and/or the bottom surface of a tissue thickness
compensator. In at least one embodiment, the top surface 15321 of
the tissue thickness compensator 15320 can comprise a flat, or at
least substantially flat, surface, for example.
[0705] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 296, a staple
cartridge can comprise a tissue thickness compensator, such as
tissue thickness compensator 15120, for example, which can comprise
a plurality of portions having different thicknesses. In at least
one embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator 15120 can comprise
a first, or inner, portion 15122a which can have a first thickness,
second, or intermediate, portions 15122b extending from the first
portion 15122b which can each have a second thickness, and third,
or outer, portions 15122c extending from the second portions 15122b
which can each have a third thickness. In at least one such
embodiment, the third thickness can be thicker than the second
thickness and the second thickness can be thicker than the first
thickness, for example, although any suitable thicknesses could be
utilized in various other embodiments. In various embodiments, the
portions 15122a-15122c of the tissue thickness compensator 15120
can comprise steps having different thickness. In at least one
embodiment, similar to the above, a staple cartridge can comprise
several rows of staples 10030 and a plurality of staple drivers
having different heights which can deform the staples 10030 to
different formed heights. Also similar to the above, the staple
cartridge can comprise first staple drivers 15140a which can drive
the staples 10030 supported thereon to a first formed height,
second staple drivers 15140b which can drive the staples 10030
supported thereon to a second formed height, and third staple
drivers which can drive the staples 10030 supported thereon to a
third formed height, wherein the first formed height can be shorter
than the second formed height and the second formed height can be
shorter than the third formed height, for example. In various
embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 296, each staple 10030 can
comprise the same, or substantially the same, unformed, or unfired,
height. In certain other embodiments, referring now to FIG. 296A,
the first drivers 15140a, the second drivers 15140b, and/or the
third drivers 15140c can support staples having different unformed
heights. In at least one such embodiment, the first staple drivers
15140a can support staples 15130a having a first unformed height,
the second staple drivers 15140b can support staples 15130b having
a second unformed height, and the third staple drivers 15140c can
support staples 15130c having a third unformed height, wherein the
first unformed height can be shorter than the second unformed
height and the second unformed height can be shorter than the third
unformed height, for example. In various embodiments, referring
again to FIG. 296A, the tips of the staples 15130a, 15130b, and/or
15130c can lie, or at least substantially lie, in the same plane
while, in other embodiments, the tips of the staples 15130a,
15130b, and/or 15130c may not lie in same plane. In certain
embodiments, referring now to FIG. 297, a staple cartridge can
include a tissue thickness compensator 15220 having a plurality of
portions having different thickness which can be implanted against
the tissue T by the staples 15130a, 15130b, and 15130c, as
described above. In at least one embodiment, referring now to FIG.
298, the staples 15130a, 15130b, and/or 15130c can be deformed to
different formed heights wherein the first staples 15130a can be
formed to a first formed height, the second staples 15130b can be
formed to a second formed height, and the third staples 15130c can
be formed to a third formed height, and wherein the first formed
height can be shorter than the second formed height and the second
formed height can be shorter than the third formed height, for
example. Other embodiments are envisioned in which the staples
15130a, 15130b, and 15130c can be formed to any suitable formed
heights and/or any relative formed heights.
[0706] In various embodiments, as described above, the anvil of a
surgical stapling instrument can be moved between an open position
and a closed position. In such circumstances, the tissue-contacting
surface of the anvil can be moved into its final, or forming,
position as the anvil is moved into its closed position. Once the
anvil is in its closed position, in certain embodiments, the
tissue-contacting surface may no longer be adjustable. In certain
other embodiments, referring now to FIG. 351, a surgical stapler,
such as surgical stapler 15500, for example, can comprise an anvil
channel 15560 and an adjustable tissue-contacting anvil adjustment
plate 15561 positioned within the anvil channel 15560. In such
embodiments, the anvil plate 15561 can be raised and/or lowered
within the anvil channel 15560 in order to adjust the position of
the tissue-contacting surface of the anvil plate 15561 relative to
a staple cartridge positioned opposite the anvil plate 15561. In
various embodiments, the surgical stapler 15500 can comprise an
adjustment slide 15564 which, referring to FIGS. 356 and 357, can
be slid intermediate the anvil channel 15560 and the anvil plate
15561 in order to control the distance between the anvil plate
15561 and the staple cartridge. In certain embodiments, referring
again to FIGS. 351 and 352, the surgical stapler 15500 can further
comprise an actuator 15562 coupled to the adjustment slide 15564
which can be slid proximally in order to slide the adjustment slide
15564 proximally and/or slid distally in order to slide the
adjustment slide 15564 distally. In various embodiments, referring
again to FIGS. 356 and 357, the actuator 15562 can be slid between
two or more pre-defined positions in order to adjust the anvil
plate 15561 between two or more positions, respectively. In at
least one embodiment, such pre-defined positions can be demarcated
on the surgical stapler 15500 as demarcations 15563 (FIG. 351), for
example. In certain embodiments, referring to FIG. 357, the
adjustment slide 15564 can comprise a plurality of support
surfaces, such as first support surface 15565a, second support
surface 15565b, and third support surface 15565c, for example,
which can be aligned with a plurality of plate positioning
surfaces, such as first positioning surface 15569a, second
positioning surface 15569b, and third positioning surface 15569c,
respectively, on the backside of the anvil plate 15561 in order to
position the anvil plate 15561 in a first position. In order to
position the anvil plate 15561 in a second position, the actuator
15562 and the slide 15564 can be slid proximally, for example, in
order to realign the support surfaces 15565a-15565c of the slide
15564 relative to the positioning surfaces 15569a-15569c of the
anvil plate 15561. More particularly, referring to FIG. 356, the
slide 15564 can be slid distally such that the first support
surface 15565a of the slide 15564 can be positioned behind the
second positioning surface 15569b of the anvil plate 15561 and such
that the second support surface 15565b of the slide 15564 can be
positioned behind the third positioning surface 15569c of the anvil
plate 15561 in order to move the anvil plate 15561 closer to the
staple cartridge. When the anvil plate 15561 is moved from its
first position to its second position, in such circumstances, the
adjustable anvil plate 15561 can further compress the tissue T
positioned between the anvil plate 15561 and the staple cartridge.
In addition to the above, the formed height of the staples can be
controlled by the position of the anvil plate 15561 relative to the
staple cartridge as the forming pockets defined in the anvil plate
15561 will move closer to and/or further away from the staple
cartridge when the anvil plate 15561 is adjusted. Although only two
positions are discussed above, the slide 15564 can be slid into a
suitable number of positions to move the anvil plate 15561 closer
to and/or away from the staple cartridge. In any event, once the
anvil plate 15561 has been suitably positioned, a staple-deploying
sled 15550 can be slid distally within the staple cartridge in
order to lift staple drivers 15540 and staples 15530 toward the
anvil plate 15561 and staple the tissue T, as illustrated in FIG.
354. Similar surgical staplers are disclosed in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/036,647, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING
INSTRUMENT, which was filed on Feb. 28, 2011, the entire disclosure
of which is incorporated by reference herein.
[0707] In various embodiments, referring now to FIG. 353, a staple
cartridge can be positioned within a staple cartridge channel 15570
of the surgical stapler 15500 which can comprise a tissue thickness
compensator, such as tissue thickness compensator 15520, for
example. When the anvil plate 15561 is moved toward the staple
cartridge, as described above, the anvil plate 15561 can compress
the tissue thickness compensator 15520 and/or the tissue T
positioned intermediate the anvil plate 15561 and the tissue
thickness compensator 15520. As the staples 15530 are deployed from
the staple cartridge, referring to FIG. 355, the staples 15530 can
compress and implant the tissue thickness compensator 15520 against
the tissue T. In various embodiments, when the anvil plate 15561 is
positioned against the slide 15564 and tissue has not yet been
placed between the anvil plate 15561 and the tissue thickness
compensator 15520, a gap can be defined between the anvil plate
15561 and the top surface 15521 of the tissue thickness compensator
15520 when the anvil plate 15561 is in a first position. When the
anvil plate 15561 is moved into a second position, the anvil plate
15561 can contact the tissue thickness compensator 15520. In
various alternative embodiments, when the anvil plate 15561 is
positioned against the slide 15564 and tissue has not yet been
placed between the anvil plate 15561 and the tissue thickness
compensator 15520, a gap can be defined between the anvil plate
15561 and the top surface 15521 of the tissue thickness compensator
15520 when the anvil plate 15561 is in a first position and/or a
second position. In at least one such embodiment, the anvil plate
15561 may not come into contact with the tissue thickness
compensator 15520. In further alternative embodiments, when the
anvil plate 15561 is positioned against the slide 15564 and tissue
has not yet been placed between the anvil plate 15561 and the
tissue thickness compensator 15520, the anvil plate 15561 can be in
contact with the top surface 15521 of the tissue thickness
compensator 15520 regardless of whether the anvil plate 15561 is in
a first position and/or a second position, for example. Although
only two positions for the anvil plate 15611 are described herein,
the anvil plate 15611 may be positioned, or indexed, into any
suitable number of positions.
[0708] In various embodiments, as a result of the above, a surgical
stapling instrument can comprise means for adjusting the formed
height of the staples which can, in various circumstance,
compensate for different tissue thicknesses. In addition, the
surgical stapling instrument can comprise other means for
compensating for different tissue thicknesses and/or thickness
variations within the tissue, for example. In at least one such
embodiment, the anvil plate 15561 can be adjusted upwardly, or
away, from the opposing staple cartridge to increase the formed, or
fired, height of the staples. Correspondingly, the anvil plate
15561 can be adjusted downwardly, or toward, the opposing staple
cartridge to decrease the formed, or fired, height of the staples.
In various embodiments, the adjustment of the anvil plate 15561,
for example, can adjust the gap between the forming pockets defined
in the anvil plate 15561 and the fired height of the staple drivers
or, more specifically, the fired height of the staple driver
cradles, for example. Even with such a capacity to adjust the
formed height of the staples to account for thicker and/or thinner
tissue, for example, a tissue thickness compensator can also
compensate for thicker and/or thinner tissue and/or compensate for
thickness variations within the tissue, as described above. In such
embodiments, a surgeon can be afforded with several compensation
means within the same surgical stapling instrument.
[0709] As described above and illustrated in several embodiments, a
surgical stapling instrument can utilize a staple cartridge having
a linear arrangement of staple cavities and staples wherein a
firing member can be advanced distally through the staple cartridge
to deploy the staples from the staple cavities. In certain
embodiments, a staple cartridge can comprise rows of staple
cavities and staples which are curved. In at least one embodiment,
referring now to FIGS. 345 and 346, a surgical stapling instrument,
such as stapler 15600, for example, can comprise one or more
circular or annular rows of staple cavities defined in a circular
or annular support portion 15610. Such circular staple rows can
comprise a circular row of inner staple cavities 15612 and a
circular row of outer staple cavities 15613, for example. In at
least one such embodiment, the circular rows of staple cavities can
surround a circular or annular aperture 15615 defined in the
stapler 15600 which can house a circular or annular knife movably
positioned therein. In use, tissue can be positioned against the
deck surface 15611 of the support portion 15610 and an anvil (not
illustrated) can be assembled to the surgical stapler 15600 via an
actuator extending through and/or positioned within the aperture
15615 such that, when the actuator is actuated, the anvil can be
clamped toward the support portion 15610 and compress the tissue
against the deck surface 15611. Once the tissue has been
sufficiently compressed, the staples positioned within the staple
cavities 15612 and 15613 can be ejected from the support portion
15610 and through the tissue such that the staples can contact the
anvil and be sufficiently deformed to capture the tissue therein.
As the staples are being fired and/or after the staples have been
fired, the circular knife can be advanced to transect the tissue.
Thereafter, the anvil can be moved away from the support portion
15610 and/or detached from the surgical stapler 15600 such that the
anvil and the surgical stapler 15600 can be removed from the
surgical site. Such surgical staplers 15600 and such surgical
techniques, in various embodiments, can be utilized to join two
portions of a large intestine, for example. In various
circumstances, the circular staple lines may be configured to hold
the portions of the large intestine together while the tissue heals
and, at the same time, permit the portions of the large intestine
to resiliently expand. Similar surgical stapling instruments and
surgical techniques are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,285,945,
entitled SURGICAL ANASTOMOSIS STAPLING INSTRUMENT, which issued on
Feb. 15, 1994, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by
reference herein.
[0710] In various embodiments, further to the above, a tissue
thickness compensator may be positioned against and/or attached to
the support portion 15610 of the surgical stapler 15600, for
example. In at least one embodiment, the tissue thickness
compensator can be comprised of a circular or annular ring of
material comprising an inner radius and an outer radius, for
example. In certain circumstances, tissue can be positioned against
this ring of material and, when the anvil is used to move the
tissue toward the support portion 15610, the tissue thickness
compensator can be compressed between the tissue and the deck
surface 15611. During use, the staples can be fired through the
tissue thickness compensator and the tissue such that the staples
can contact the anvil and deform to their fired position to capture
portions of the tissue and the tissue thickness compensator within
the staples. In various circumstances, further to the above, the
ring of material comprising the tissue thickness compensator must
be sufficiently resilient to permit the portions of the large
intestine surrounding the staple lines to expand. In various
embodiments, referring again to FIGS. 345 and 346, a flexible
tissue thickness compensator 15620 can comprise a circular or
annular flexible inner ring 15624, for example, which, in at least
one embodiment, can define a circular or annular aperture 15625. In
certain embodiments, the inner ring 15624 may be configured such
that it is not captured within staples deployed from the surgical
stapler 15600; rather, in at least one embodiment, the inner ring
15624 may be positioned radially inwardly with respect to the inner
row of staple cavities 15612. In at least one such embodiment, the
tissue thickness compensator 15620 can comprise a plurality of
tags, such as inner tags 15622 and outer tags 15623, for example,
extending therefrom such that the tags can be at least partially
captured within the staples as they are being deformed. More
particularly, referring primarily to FIG. 345, each inner tag 15622
can comprise a head which is positioned over a staple cavity 15612
defined in the surgical stapler 15600 wherein the head can be
attached to the inner ring 15624 by a neck 15626, for example, and,
similarly, each outer tag 15623 can comprise a head which is
positioned over a staple cavity 15613 defined in the surgical
stapler 15600 wherein the head can be attached to the inner ring
15624 by a neck 15627, for example. In various embodiments, the
heads of the inner tags 15622 and the outer tags 15623 can comprise
any suitable shape, such as round, oval, and/or elliptical, for
example. The necks 15626 and/or 15627 can also comprise any
suitable shape wherein, in at least one embodiment, the necks 15627
connecting the heads of the outer tags 15623 to the inner ring
15624 can be configured to extend between adjacent inner staple
cavities 15612 in the support portion 15610 such that the necks
15627 are not captured within the staples deployed from the inner
staple cavities 15612.
[0711] In various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 347 and 348,
a flexible tissue thickness compensator 15720 can comprise a
circular or annular flexible outer ring 15724, for example. In
certain embodiments, the outer ring 15724 may be configured such
that it is not captured within staples deployed from the surgical
stapler 15600; rather, in at least one embodiment, the outer ring
15724 may be positioned radially outwardly with respect to the
outer row of staple cavities 15613. In at least one such
embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator 15720 can comprise a
plurality of tags, such as inner tags 15622 and outer tags 15623,
for example, extending therefrom such that the tags can be at least
partially captured within the staples as they are being deformed.
More particularly, referring primarily to FIG. 347, each inner tag
15622 can comprise a head which is positioned over a staple cavity
15612 defined in the surgical stapler 15600 wherein the head can be
attached to the outer ring 15724 by a neck 15726, for example, and,
similarly, each outer tag 15623 can comprise a head which is
positioned over a staple cavity 15613 defined in the surgical
stapler 15600 wherein the head can be attached to the outer ring
15724 by a neck 15727, for example. In various embodiments, the
heads of the inner tags 15622 and the outer tags 15623 can comprise
any suitable shape, such as round, oval, and/or elliptical, for
example. The necks 15726 and/or 15727 can also comprise any
suitable shape wherein, in at least one embodiment, the necks 15726
connecting the heads of the inner tags 15622 to the outer ring
15724 can be configured to extend between adjacent outer staple
cavities 15613 such that the necks 15726 are not captured within
the staples deployed from the outer staple cavities 15613. In
certain alternative embodiments, a tissue thickness compensator can
comprise a circular or annular flexible inner ring, a circular or
annular flexible outer ring, and, in addition, a plurality of tags
which can be connected to the inner ring and/or the outer ring. In
at least one embodiment, certain tags can be connected to the inner
ring and certain other tags can be connected to the outer ring. In
certain embodiments, at least some of the tags can be connected to
both the inner ring and the outer ring. In any event, further to
the above, the inner ring 15624 of the tissue thickness compensator
15620, the outer ring 15724 of the tissue thickness compensator
15720, and/or any other suitable tissue thickness compensator, can
be configured to resiliently expand and/or contract in order to
accommodate the expansion and/or contraction of the tissue that it
has been implanted against. Furthermore, although various
embodiments are described herein as comprising circular or annular
support rings, a tissue thickness compensator can comprise any
suitably-shaped support structure for connecting the tags thereto.
In various embodiments, further to the above, the circular knife
advanced by the surgical stapler to cut the tissue captured between
the anvil and the support portion can also cut the buttress
material. In at least one such embodiment, the knife can separate
the inner support ring from the tags by cutting the necks thereof,
for example.
[0712] In various embodiments, further to the above, a tissue
thickness compensator can comprise detachable and/or relatively
movable positions which can be configured to allow the tissue
thickness compensator to expand and/or contract in order to
accommodate the movement of the tissue that it has been implanted
against. Referring now to FIGS. 349 and 350, a circular or annular
tissue thickness compensator 15820 can be positioned against and/or
supported by the deck surface 15611 of the surgical stapler 15600
which can be held in an unexpanded position (FIG. 349) as it is
being implanted against the tissue and, after the tissue thickness
compensator 15820 has been implanted, the tissue thickness
compensator 15820 can be configured to expand outwardly, as
illustrated in FIG. 350. In various embodiments, the tissue
thickness compensator 15820 can comprise a plurality of arcuate
portions 15822 which can be connected together by an inner ring
15824, for example. In at least one embodiment, the arcuate
portions 15822 can be separated from one another by seams 15828. In
at least one other embodiment, the arcuate portions 15822 may be
connected to one another wherein, in at least one such embodiment,
an arrangement of perforations may permit the arcuate portions
15822 to separate from one another. In either event, in various
embodiments, the arcuate portions 15822 can each comprise
interlocking features, such as projections 15826 and notches 15823,
for example, which can co-operate to limit relative movement
between the arcuate portions 15822 prior to the tissue thickness
compensator 15820 being implanted. Further to the above, each
arcuate portion 15822 can be connected to the inner ring 15824 by
one or more connectors 15827, for example, which can be configured
to releasably hold the arcuate portions 15822 in position. After
the staples, such as staples 10030, for example, stored within the
support portion 15610 have been utilized to implant the tissue
thickness compensator 15620 against the tissue, referring primarily
to FIG. 350, the connectors 15827 can detach from the inner ring
15824 and allow the tissue thickness compensator 15820 to at least
partially expand to accommodate movement within the underlying
tissue. In various circumstances, all of the arcuate portions 15822
may detach from the inner ring 15824 while, in other circumstances,
only some of the arcuate portions 15822 may detach from the inner
ring 15824. In certain alternative embodiments, the arcuate
portions 15822 can be connected by flexible sections which can
permit the arcuate portions 15822 to move relative to each other
but not detach from one another. In at least one such embodiment,
the flexible sections may not receive staples therein and can be
configured to stretch and/or contract to accommodate the relative
movement of the arcuate portions 15822. In the embodiment
illustrated in FIGS. 349 and 350, the tissue thickness compensator
15820 can comprise eight arcuate portions 15822, for example. In
certain other embodiments, a tissue thickness compensator can
comprise any suitable number of arcuate portions, such as two or
more arcuate portions, for example.
[0713] Further to the above, a tissue thickness compensator 15620,
15720, and/or 15820, for example, can be configured to compensate
for thicker and/or thinner tissue captured between the anvil and
the support portion 15610 of the surgical instrument 15600. In
various embodiments, similar to the above, the formed, or fired,
height of the staples can be adjusted by moving the anvil toward
and/or away from the support portion 15610. More particularly, the
anvil can be moved closer to the support portion 15610 to decrease
the formed height of the staples while, correspondingly, the anvil
can be moved further away from the support portion 15610 to
increase the formed height of the staples. In such embodiments, as
a result, a surgeon can adjust the anvil away from the support
portion 15610 to account for thick tissue and toward the support
portion 15610 to account for thin tissue. In various other
circumstances, the surgeon may decide not to adjust the anvil at
all and rely on the tissue thickness compensator to account for the
thinner and/or thicker tissue. In various embodiments, as a result,
the surgical instrument 15600 can comprise at least two means for
compensating for different tissue thicknesses and/or variations in
the tissue thickness.
[0714] In various embodiments, as described above, a tissue
thickness compensator can be attached to a support portion of a
staple cartridge. In certain embodiments, the bottom surface of the
tissue thickness compensator can comprise one of a layer of hooks
or a layer of loops while a deck surface on the support portion can
comprise the other one of the layer of hooks and the layer of
loops. In at least one such embodiment, the hooks and the loops can
be configured to engage one another and releasably retain the
tissue thickness compensator to the support portion. In various
embodiments, each hook can comprise an enlarged head extending from
a neck, for example. In certain embodiments, a plurality of pads
comprising the loops, for example, can be bonded to the bottom
surface of the tissue thickness compensator while a plurality of
pads comprising the hooks can be bonded to the deck surface of the
support portion. In at least one embodiment, the support portion
can comprise one or more apertures and/or recesses, for example,
which can be configured to receive an insert therein comprising
hooks and/or loops. In addition to or in lieu of the above, a
tissue thickness compensator can be removably mounted to an anvil
utilizing such hook and loop arrangements, for example. In various
embodiments, the hooks and loops can comprise fibrous surfaces, for
example.
[0715] In various embodiments, as described above, a staple
cartridge can comprise a support portion and a tissue thickness
compensator attached to the support portion. In certain
embodiments, as also described above, the support portion can
comprise a longitudinal slot configured to receive a cutting member
therein and the tissue thickness compensator can comprise a
retention member that can be retained in the longitudinal slot. In
at least one embodiment, referring now to FIG. 386, a staple
cartridge 16000 can comprise a support portion 16010 including a
deck surface 16011 and a longitudinal slot 16015. The staple
cartridge 16000 can further comprise a tissue thickness compensator
16020 positioned above the deck surface 16011. In various
embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator 16020 can include a
longitudinal retention member 16025 which extends downwardly into
the longitudinal slot 16015. In at least one such embodiment, the
retention member 16025 can be pressed into the slot 16015 such that
the interaction between the retention member 16025 and the slot
16015 can resist relative movement between the support portion
16010 and the tissue thickness compensator 16020. In various
embodiments, the body of the tissue thickness compensator 16020 can
be comprised of a first material and the retention member 16025 can
be comprised of a second, or different, material. In certain
embodiments, the body of the tissue thickness compensator 16020 can
be comprised of a material having a first durometer and the
retention member 16025 can be comprised of a material having a
second durometer, wherein the second durometer can be higher than
the first durometer, for example. In use, in at least one
embodiment, the staples 10030 can be pushed upwardly by staple
drivers 10040 such that the tips of the staples 10030 can push
through the body of the tissue thickness compensator 16020 and
emerge from the tissue contacting surface 16021 and capture at
least a portion of the tissue thickness compensator 16020 against
the targeted tissue. In various embodiments, a cutting member
passing through the slot 16015 can transect the retention member
16025 as the staples 10030 are being deployed. Once the tissue
thickness compensator 16020 has been implanted, in various
embodiments, the retention member 16025 can be pulled out of the
slot 16015. In certain other embodiments, the body of the tissue
thickness compensator 16020 can be configured to detach from the
retention member 16025.
[0716] Referring now to FIGS. 387 and 389, a staple cartridge 17000
can comprise a support portion 17010 including a deck surface 17011
and a longitudinal slot 17015. The staple cartridge 17000 can
further comprise a tissue thickness compensator 17020 positioned
above the deck surface 17011. In various embodiments, the tissue
thickness compensator 17020 can include a longitudinal retention
member 17025 which extends downwardly into the longitudinal slot
17015. In at least one such embodiment, the retention member 17025
can be pressed into the slot 17015 such that the interaction
between the retention member 17025 and the slot 17015 can resist
relative movement between the support portion 17010 and the tissue
thickness compensator 17020. In various embodiments, the retention
member 17025 can extend through the entirety of the tissue
thickness compensator 17020 to the top surface 17021 thereof
wherein body portions 17024 of the tissue thickness compensator
17020 can be attached to opposite sides of the retention member
17025. In at least one such embodiment, the retention member 17025
can also be configured to resist the lateral deflection, for
example, of the tissue thickness compensator 17020. In various
embodiments, the body portions 17024 can be comprised of a first
material and the retention member 17025 can be comprised of a
second, or different, material. In certain embodiments, the body
portions 17024 can be comprised of a material having a first
durometer and the retention member 17025 can be comprised of a
material having a second durometer, wherein the second durometer
can be higher than the first durometer, for example. In various
embodiments, further to the above, a cutting member passing through
the slot 17015 can transect the retention member 17025 as the
staples 10030 are being deployed. Once the tissue thickness
compensator 17020 has been implanted, in various embodiments, the
retention member 17025 can be pulled out of the slot 17015. In
certain other embodiments, the body portions 17024 can be
configured to detach from the retention member 17025.
[0717] Referring now to FIG. 388, a staple cartridge 18000 can
comprise a support portion 18010 including a deck surface 18011 and
a longitudinal slot 18015. The staple cartridge 18000 can further
comprise a tissue thickness compensator 18020 positioned above the
deck surface 18011. In various embodiments, the tissue thickness
compensator 18020 can include a longitudinal retention member 18025
which extends downwardly into the longitudinal slot 18015. In at
least one such embodiment, the retention member 18025 can be
pressed into the slot 18015 such that the interaction between the
retention member 18025 and the slot 18015 can resist relative
movement between the support portion 18010 and the tissue thickness
compensator 18020. In various embodiments, the retention member
18025 can extend through the entirety of the tissue thickness
compensator 18020 to the top surface 18021 thereof wherein body
portions 18024 of the tissue thickness compensator 18020 can be
attached to opposite sides of the retention member 18025. In at
least one embodiment, the retention member 18025 can comprise an
enlarged portion 18026 which can be received in a cavity 18016
defined in the slot 18015. In at least one such embodiment, the
enlarged portion 18026 can resist the withdrawal of the retention
member 18025 from the slot 18015.
[0718] The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed
of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple
times. In either case, however, the device can be reconditioned for
reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning can include any
combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by
cleaning or replacement of particular pieces, and subsequent
reassembly. In particular, the device can be disassembled, and any
number of the particular pieces or parts of the device can be
selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning
and/or replacement of particular parts, the device can be
reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility,
or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure.
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a
device can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly,
cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and
the resulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the
present application.
[0719] Preferably, the invention described herein will be processed
before surgery. First, a new or used instrument is obtained and if
necessary cleaned. The instrument can then be sterilized. In one
sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and
sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and
instrument are then placed in a field of radiation that can
penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or
high-energy electrons. The radiation kills bacteria on the
instrument and in the container. The sterilized instrument can then
be stored in the sterile container. The sealed container keeps the
instrument sterile until it is opened in the medical facility.
[0720] Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in
whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference
herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the
incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions,
statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this
disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as
explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material
incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof,
that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which
conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other
disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to
the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated
material and the existing disclosure material.
[0721] While this invention has been described as having exemplary
designs, the present invention may be further modified within the
spirit and scope of the disclosure. This application is therefore
intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the
invention using its general principles. Further, this application
is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as
come within known or customary practice in the art to which this
invention pertains.
* * * * *